Appendix E
DESCRIPTIONS OF VENOMOUS SNAKES
Rhinoceros viper or river jack
Rhinoceros viper or river jack
Bitis nasicornis
Description: 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.
Characteristics: Its appearance is awesome; its horns and very rough scales give it a sinister look. It has an irritable disposition. It is not aggressive but will stand its ground ready to strike if disturbed. Its venom is neurotoxic and hemotoxic.
Habitat: Rain forests, along waterways, and in swamps.
Length: Average 75 centimeters (30 inches), maximum 1 meter (3 feet).
Distribution: Equatorial Africa (Figure E-39).
Figure E-39. Rhinoceros Viper or River Jack Habitat
Survival index
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