The Gaboon viper is one of the world’s deadliest snakes. Generally found in the forests and woodlands of western and central Africa, it grows to be around 7 ft (2 m) long and weighs almost 18 lb (8 kg). It has the longest fangs and highest venom yield of any snake. The fangs often measure two inches long or more.
While Gaboon viper bites are rare for humans, when they do bite, it is often fatal. Adults are typically 4 to 5 ft in total length with a maximum total length of 81 in. Females are very heavy and stout.
This viper is considered the deadliest in Africa, as only 100 mg of its venom is lethal to humans. However, some inject up to 1000 mg of venom in a single bite.
From the Mozambique spitting cobra to the infamous black mamba, this article ranks Africa’s 10 deadliest snakes. The Gaboon Viper is one of the world’s deadliest snakes. It can grow to 7 feet in length. What makes it impressive is the size of its fangs, at 2 inches long. Its venom attacks the circulatory system, eventually causing respiratory paralysis.
The snake gives out a warning hiss if agitated, before rearing its head and striking. Most bites recorded are from captive snakes rather than wild ones. It is rare to be bitten by these snakes because they are calm in nature, only striking when threatened or accidentally stepped on.
This article examines and ranks the 10 deadliest snakes on the African continent, providing an overview of each snake’s traits and venom toxicity in relation to humans and animals.
Has anyone survived a Gaboon viper?
The Gaboon viper is native to Africa. It delivers a painful and often lethal bite. A Wilmington, North Carolina man has been released from the hospital after surviving a Gaboon viper bite. The man was caring for the snake when he was bitten. He received 44 anti-venom treatments, twice the normal amount. Doctors call it the worst Gaboon viper bite survived.
The Gaboon viper is one of the most venomous snakes on Earth. Its venom can cause death in one bite. The victim lost two fingers but had no other effects. Gaboon vipers rarely bite people. Most bites happen when stepped on before escaping. If threatened, they will hiss before striking.
Gaboon vipers are placid. They weigh over 45 pounds and reach 6 feet long. Bites mostly happen by accident. Their venom is very poisonous. This man needed record doses of anti-venom to survive. He was very lucky.
Do gaboon vipers live in the Amazon?
Gaboon vipers live in rainforests and savannas of Africa. They prefer areas with vegetation like forests, swamps and marshes. These snakes are highly venomous and can be dangerous. Gaboon vipers are one of the largest venomous snakes. They are native to Africa. Their range extends from West Africa rainforests to East Africa savannas.
Gaboon vipers inhabit rainforests and savannas. They live in areas with vegetation like forests, swamps and marshes. These snakes are passive hunters. They lie in wait to strike small creatures. Gaboon vipers are dangerous with highly toxic venom. The vipers have excellent camouflage resembling fallen leaves. This helps them blend into the forest floor. They rarely bite humans unless threatened.
Are gaboon vipers good pets?
Gaboon vipers are not good pets. Owning any venomous snake is dangerous. If they bite, it can be extremely dangerous. You can buy a baby Gaboon viper for $100. They need little maintenance and can live 20 years. Baby Gaboon vipers eat birds and rodents. Gaboon vipers can grow very big. They move slowly. Their strike is fast. Their bite is extremely serious. Unlike most vipers, Gaboons hold on after striking until prey dies.
Gaboon vipers may seem docile but they are not good pets. One bite can show keeping them is a bad idea. Some people have survived bites but needed amputations.
A single Gaboon viper needs a 75 gallon terrarium. A pair needs at least 125 gallons, bigger is better. Gaboon Vipers are carnivores. They hang on to prey with fangs. They eat birds like doves and mammals like rodents, hares and rabbits.
There are no known Gaboon viper predators. They blend in with forest floors, perhaps hiding from potential prey.
The Gaboon Viper has intricate brown, green and gray skin that mimics light and shadows to hide in African forests and savannas. Its elongated head scales look like a crown. It is the largest African viper.
Everything about the Gaboon Viper. It is a venomous African snake and the largest viper there.
The adult Gaboon Viper is typically four feet long with beautiful skin patterns.
Gaboon vipers are not good pets and are extremely dangerous.
Venomous snakes that can kill, including vipers, are easily bought despite being unsuitable pets.
Saw-scaled vipers are aggressive with potent venom.
Gaboon Viper bites are medical emergencies. They can be fatal without appropriate treatment.
Gaboon Vipers should only be handled by professionals. They are unsuitable pets due to potential aggression and deadly venom. Taming them is not recommended due to risks.
Mud snakes can be affectionate, easy to care for pets if given proper habitat. Remember to provide water, food and peaceful environment.
Gaboon vipers are highly venomous. Bites inject neurotoxin causing muscle spasms. Bites can be fatal without treatment.
Breeding Gaboon vipers does not require temperature manipulation. Cooler weather, misting may stimulate breeding. Litters range 10-40 neonates.
Gaboon vipers have very long fangs, over 2 inches, that fold against mouth roof when not in use.
Few people have survived Gaboon viper bites, but needed amputations. These snakes are extremely dangerous pets.