
The puff adder (Bitis arietans) is a highly venomous viper species found in savannahs and grasslands from Morocco and western Arabia throughout Africa except for the Sahara and rainforest regions. It is responsible for causing the most snakebite fatalities in Africa owing to various factors, such as its wide distribution, frequent occurrence in highly populated regions, and aggressive disposition. Two subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.
From Wikipedia, under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Is it venomous or poisonous?
Venomous. The note covers its whole family. Vipers and pit vipers; all species venomous Never eat, touch or handle a wild plant, mushroom or animal on the strength of an identification; ask someone qualified.
Easily confused with
- Bothrops diporus — considered venomous
- Bothrops alternatus — considered venomous
- Daboia palaestinae — venomous
- Bothrops pubescens — considered venomous
- Bothrops neuwiedi — considered venomous
Classification
- Kingdom
- Animalia
- Phylum
- Chordata
- Class
- Reptilia
- Order
- Squamata
- Family
- Viperidae
- Genus
- Bitis
- Species
- Bitis arietans
Found one? Take a photo and B.inomen will suggest what it is, free.
Check your photo