Scientific name: Bothrops atrox

Biology

Bothrops atrox is usually referred as fer-de-lance, the local name for the common lancehead snake is the Barba amarilla, known as Cassaca too. The true fer-de-lance lives in the West Indies.

This specie can reach 2,50m long. This snake has large, dark, pale, margined triangles with points that meet on the dorsal line, the head is triangular (lance-shaped) and the color of this snake can take on many shades for a perfect camouflage that is used efficiently on hunting the prey, also the pit organ is important for thermal perception of it´s prey. Bothrops atrox has an aggressive behavior and strong venomous bite, the common lancehead is a primary concern for plantation and agricultural workers. View larger image

Reproduction
The lancehead gives birth to live young. The litters can contain up to 80 babies that are about one foot long. They are born with venom glands that are already dangerous

View larger image

Venom
Anti-clotting

Feeding
Lizards and arthropods when they are young
As adults the food habit is mainly small mammals, which include opossums, birds, lizards, and smaller snakes

Habitat
Agricultural land, plantations

Distribution View Map
Central and South America