Fangtastic Facts
African Hairy Bush Viper
(Atheris hispida)
The African hairy bush viper (Atheris hispida) is a highly arboreal snake that spends much of its life among the vegetation of trees and shrubs. Although relatively little is known about the species compared with many other vipers, its distinctive appearance and unusual keeled scales make it a particularly fascinating member of the genus Atheris.
The large eyes and keeled scales give the African hairy bush viper (Atheris hispida) a dragon-like appearance.
Photography: © rmrphotography.com.au
Description
The African hairy bush viper is a small snake that averages 40-60 cm in length. It has heavily keeled scales that give it a rough or bushy appearance, hence its name. Its scales resemble leaves, helping it blend into its natural habitat. It has large, round eyes with elliptical pupils and a round snout.
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Colouration varies, but typically includes combinations of greens, yellows, olive tones, browns, or black, often arranged in irregular mottling or banding. This cryptic palette enhances its ability to camouflage.
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Important: Colour, markings and overall appearance can vary considerably between individual snakes. Photographs, descriptions and information on this website should not be relied upon to identify a potentially venomous snake. If you encounter a snake, keep your distance and leave identification and removal to trained professionals.
The large, protruding eyes of the African hairy bush viper (Atheris hispida) provide excellent visual awareness in its dense forest habitat. Photography: © rmrphotography.com.au
Distribution
This species has been observed in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Habitat
The African hairy bush viper inhabits moist forests, wetlands and dense shrubland. Within these habitats, it shelters among tall grasses, tangled vines, papyrus stands, low trees, bushes and thick undergrowth.
Diet
Although this arboreal species is commonly found above ground, it may sometimes hunt small mammals on the ground, or seek out frogs, birds and lizards to consume.
Reproduction
This species gives birth to up to 12 live young.
Conservation status
The IUCN Red List classifies this snake as a species of least concern. Its arboreal nature, combined with its cryptic coloration, helps it remain well hidden in the forest canopy.
Fangtastic Fact
Unlike many arboreal vipers that use thicker branches, Atheris hispida often climbs slender stalks and terminal flower heads. Its keeled scales provide extra traction, allowing a precise grip on vegetation that would be unstable for smoother-scaled species.
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