[IMAGE: https://cdn.steemitimages.com/DQmSvWWZccaqYmHFo5QdPsvsjziFDaMrRvpmi6MnRU75TQN/IMG-20180518-WA0073.jpg]
A Gaboon Viper (Bitis gabonica) on the beach in Zululand South Africa. (Photo sent to me kon whats app)
This is one of South Africas Deadly Dozen and the largest viper in Africa. In South Africa it has a limited distribution,restrected to a small area in Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal.
It is a most beautiful snake and one of only 2 of South Africa's Deadly Dozen that I personally have mot caught in the wild.
They are protected.
They have a calm nature and rarely bite humans. However a bite from this snake is severe and without prompt treatment will result in death.
They have huge fangs,up to 5cm in length and can inject large quantities of venom deep into the victim.
They have been known to eat prey as large as a Blue Duiker and Vervet Monkey.