Okinawan Pit Viper

Okinawan Pit Viper
English Common Name
Okinawan Pit Viper
Scientific name
Ovophis okinavensis
Taxonomy
Order: Squamata, Family: Viperidae
Size
30 cm – 80 cm
Species Distribution
Amami Group, Okinawa Group excluding Kikai, Okierabu, Yoron, and Aguni Islands
Back side is dark brown with dark angular patterns. Among Habu species found in Okinawa, its size is relatively small with a short and thick body. The species is a nocturnal animal and found close to rivers and streams in woods and paddy fields. It feeds on amphibians as well as mammals, birds, and reptiles. The species is slow, but can harm people if it is stepped in bush.

※CAUTION!
Announcement from Okinawa prefecturePlease be careful with Habu Snakes!
Updated July 2017

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