Atractaspis bibronii
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| Atractaspis bibronii | ||||||||||||||||||
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| Atractaspis bibronii A. Smith, 1849 |
- Common names: Bibron's burrowing asp.[1]
Atractaspis bibronii is a venomous snake species found in Africa. No subspecies are currently recognized.[2]
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[edit] Description
Adults average 30-50 cm in length with a maximum of 70 cm. The color pattern consists of a purplish-brown, gray or black ground color, often with a purplish sheen. The belly can be brownish, white or pale in color, with a series of dark blotches. In specimens with a lighter belly coloration, this may also include two or three scale rows on the flanks.[1]
[edit] Geographic range
Found in southern Africa, from central Namibia, east to northern South Africa, north to southeastern DR Congo and Uganda, eastern Tanzania, coastal Kenya, and extreme southern coastal Somalia.[1]
[edit] Habitat
Semi-desert, savannah and woodland.[1]
[edit] Venom
The venom is highly toxic, although it is produced in very small amounts. Bites are common in some areas. Often, snake handlers are bitten who are unaware that this species is able to bite while being held by the neck. Bite symptoms usually include mild to intense pain, local swelling with occasional blistering and necrosis and regional lymphadenopathy. No fatalities have been recorded.[1]
[edit] See also
[edit] References
- ^ a b c d e Spawls S, Branch B. 1995. The Dangerous Snakes of Africa. Ralph Curtis Books. Dubai: Oriental Press. 192 pp. ISBN 0-88359-029-8.
- ^ Atractaspis bibronii (TSN 700338). Integrated Taxonomic Information System. Retrieved on 5 September 2007.
[edit] External links
- Atractaspis bibronii at the TIGR Reptile Database. Accessed 5 September 2007.
