Species Details

@Hiranmoy Chetia (iNaturalist user)

Spot-tailed Pit Viper Did you see this animal?

Scientific Name : Trimeresurus erythrurus
Family : Viperidae
Order : Squamata
Class : Reptilia
Phylum : Chordata
Habitat : Forests,Lowlands
 
Description : Adult females can reach up to 70 cm (27.5 in) in length, while males are typically smaller. The upper part of the body is usually green, while the lower part is yellowish or light green. The tail is bright red or orange, which is where it gets its common name from. There are also some variations in coloration among individuals and populations. It has a triangular-shaped head that is wider than the neck and distinct from the body. It has keeled scales (with a raised ridge down the center) which helps distinguish it from non-venomous snakes that have smooth scales. Like all pit vipers, Trimeresurus erythrurus is venomous, with venom that can cause severe pain, swelling, and tissue damage. It primarily feeds on small mammals, birds, lizards, and frogs. It is commonly found in bamboo forests and other forested areas, but can also be found near human settlements. It is a mostly arboreal (tree-dwelling) species that is active mainly at night. It can be aggressive when threatened or cornered.
 
Distribution in Bangladesh
References:
description written by: Zarin Tasnim,Department of Zoology,University of Dhaka ; information source:IUCN Red List Bangladesh-2015 and www.reptile-database.reptarium.cz; photo credit and copyright: Hiranmoy Chetia (iNaturalist user). more information please contact with us.