SUMMARY
VENOM: Toxic
PREVALENCE: Common
ACTIVE PERIOD: Active at night
KEY ID FEATURES: Bright green body and yellow or white belly, light red tail, triangular head, normally positioned to strike, males exhibit red and white stripes down the lower laterals running the length of the body
BEHAVIOR: Ambush predator usually stays still and ready to strike, will bite readily with fast strikes
SIZE: Small/Medium - 40-60cm
QUICK ASSESSMENT 0-10
GALLERY
IMPORTANT: Many snakes have significant variance in coloration and pattern even within the same species. There can also be extreme differences in appearance from juveniles to adults so it is important to never assume you have properly identified a snake.
DESCRIPTION
A dangerously venomous species. The Siamese Peninsular Pit Viper is bright green to blueish green with yellow or white belly. Males tend to be more blue with females more green and yellow. Males also show distinct red and white lateral striping running the length of the body. Both male and female have characteristically triangular shaped head with yellow/gold eyes containing vertical pupils and light red coloration on the tail.
BEHAVIOR
Active at night and occasionally roosting in bushes during the day. The Siamese Peninsular Pit Viper is an ambush predator that will wait in a single position ready to strike. They are a viper and have relatively long retractable fangs and will bite readily at anything that comes within range. Generally not prone to give chase but will hold their ground if they feel cornered. Not actively aggressive but will not hesitate to bite. A bite from a Siamese Peninsular Pit Viper should be considered very serious and medical attention should be sought immediately. Although not known to be deadly serious damage can occur from a bite even if treated and complications can always arise.
HABITAT
Generally found in forested areas along open spaces like trails or abandoned roads where geckos and other prey can be ambushed. Previously not known to position near populated locations with artificial light, this species has been observed by the authors near street lamps and other man made locations. Found at various elevations ranging from a few tens of meters up to and potentially over 1,500m.
MISTAKEN IDENTITY
NO SNAKE SHOULD EVER BE HANDLED BY ANYONE BUT EXPERTS: Relatively distinct looking with a large triangular head. No viper should ever be approached or handled. If found observe from a safe distance.