Rhinoceros viper or river jack

Photographed by © Mark Kostich

Scientific Name: Bitis nasicornis

Nick Name: River Jack

Size:  Average 75 centimeters, maximum 1 meter.

Appearance: Brightly colored with purplish to reddish-brown markings and black and light olive markings along the back. On its head it has a triangular marking that starts at the tip of the nose. It has a pair of long horns (scales) on the tip of its nose.

Type of Venom: Its venom is neurotoxic and hemotoxic.

Nature:  It has an irritable disposition. It is not aggressive but will stand its ground ready to strike if disturbed.

Distribution: Equatorial Africa.

Habitat: Rain forests, along waterways, and in swamps.

Feeds on:

Side Line:

• Its appearance is awesome; its horns and very rough scales give it a sinister look.