What Is a Tree Viper?

The term tree viper can refer to any one of a varied number of snake species of the family Viperidae that dwell in trees. Vipers are poisonous snakes that use hollow fangs to penetrate prey and inject it with venom. These snakes are found throughout Asia, Africa and South America and while the length varies widely between species, the coloring is fairly consistent. Many are a shade of green or yellow with some yellow, white or green on the head or belly. Arboreal Frogs, small mammals, birds and lizards are all typical prey.

Most species are short tailed with keeled scales and a head that is triangle shaped. The long and hollow fangs of these vipers distinguish them from other snake species. The fangs attach to the maxillaries or upper jaw bones that move and are released only when the viper strikes its prey or in self defense. Venom is injected through the hollow fangs from glands inside the viper’s mouth. In the case of self defense, the bite is often dry and no venom is injected.

Tree viper species range in length from approximately 12 inches (30 centimeters) to more than 10 feet (3 meters). They generally give birth to live young and hunt arboreal mammals, birds, frogs and other small reptiles. These snakes are often nocturnal, hunting and ambushing their prey at night, and drink water as it collects on leaves or on their own bodies.

African tree viper species include Nitsche’s tree viper, the Rungwe tree viper and the rough-scaled tree viper. Nitsche’s viper has distinctive black markings and typically inhabits papyrus reeds that border lakes in Uganda, Malawi and DR Congo. The Rungwe viper prefers low bushes in Tanzania, Zambia and Malawi while the rough-scaled species, a bright yellow variety, can be found perched atop flowers in Kenya, Uganda and DR Congo.

Asia is also home to many arboreal viper species. The Chinese or bamboo viper is bright green and inhabits not only China but also Nepal and India. Also found in India is the Pope’s viper, a snake with distinctive red and white striped markings down its sides and a bright yellow belly. Malcom’s pitviper is found near the Sungii River in East Malaysia. The majority of tree vipers are hemotoxic because their venom can destroy red blood cells.

Some individuals keep these snakes as pets despite the risk of venomous snakebite. In some cases, the snake is venomoid or subjected to a surgical procedure that inhibits the reptile’s venom production. Most of these vipers sold as pets require a large glass enclosure, weekly soaking, and mice and frogs to serve as food. Keeping a tree viper as a pet may require a license.

A tree viper is a type of venomous snake that belongs to the family Viperidae, known for its arboreal lifestyle, meaning it primarily lives in trees. These snakes are found in various parts of the world, including Asia and Africa. They are well-adapted to their environment with prehensile tails and heat-sensing pits for hunting.

Tree vipers are ambush predators, using their camouflage to blend into the foliage and waiting patiently for prey. They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and sometimes lizards. They utilize their heat-sensing pits to detect warm-blooded prey and deliver a quick venomous strike, immobilizing their meal before consumption.

Tree vipers have several adaptations for an arboreal lifestyle, including a prehensile tail that helps them grasp and stabilize on branches. Their long, hinged fangs can deliver venom efficiently, and their slender bodies facilitate movement among the treetops. Camouflaged scales allow them to blend into their surroundings, making them effective ambush predators.

Tree vipers can be dangerous to humans due to their venom, which can cause significant pain, swelling, and tissue damage. However, these snakes are not typically aggressive and will only bite if threatened or provoked. It's essential to seek immediate medical attention if bitten, as antivenom may be required to counteract the effects.

Tree vipers can be identified by their distinctive triangular heads, slender bodies, and often vibrant colors or patterns that provide camouflage in their natural habitat. They also have vertical pupils and a set of heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, which are characteristic of pit vipers.

The conservation status of tree vipers varies by species. Some species are not considered at risk, while others face threats from habitat destruction and are listed as endangered. Organizations like the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) monitor and assess the conservation status of these reptiles to guide conservation efforts.