Medium Forest Viper

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Research

Creature Name: Medium Forest Viper

Observations by: Thaylis Beign

Creature Type: Reptile ((1226))

Creature Subtype: None listed.

CTS trainable: Not yet (under Team review).

Introduction

This particular snake has a color pattern consisting of a dark blue and blackish ground color, though others similar snakes have colors ranging from brown, gray, tan, and greenish-yellow. The colorations are overlaid with a series of 9-18 crossbands that are dark brown to almost black. An adult forest viper can grow to the length of 9-10 feet long, though more common sizes range from 6-8 feet long. They have a wedge shaped head, and the tongue is forked. Movement is achieved by a rythmic motion of the entire body, allowing it to move over all types of terrain. Vipers have also been seen moving across bodies of water unhindered.

Feeding Habits

Forest Vipers may be active during the day as well as at night. However, on bright, sunny days they are usually found coiled or stretched out somewhere in the shade. In the morning and on cool days they can often be seen warming themselves in the sunlight. At night, however, they are at their most active, when they are usually found actively hunting. They are skilled at waiting extended periods of time motionless, waiting for their prey to come within striking distance. Their colorings provide a natural camoflague. Common prey include rodents, birds, smaller mammals, and when food sources are scare, cannibalism can occur.

Disposition and Social Habits

Adults are usually solitary creatures, unless the urge to mate overcomes them. Oddly enough, the female will lay her eggs shortly before they are ready to hatch, and at times, live births have been witnessed. Young number anywhere from 6 - 18. All have relatively long hinged fangs that permit deep penetration and injection of venom. The fangs are hallow, with the poison kept in glands near the back of the mouth. The poison immobilizes smaller creatures, allowing for easier consumption. Larger prey are often not killed outright by the poison effects, but are considerably weaken by the toxin.

Habitat

Vipers are commonly found in various settings, ranging from forests to farmlands to arid regions, wherever small mammal and birds are abundant.

Fylgia

Most compatible: Giant Spider

• Both the Viper and Spider are opportunists when it comes to catching prey, waiting long periods of time before a potential meal happens by within striking distance. And, of course, the use of poison to incapacitate its prey.

Other notes

None listed.