The plain mountain adder (Bitis inornata) is a small-size venomous viper which inhabits the grassland and hills of the Sneeuberg, near Graaff-Reinet, South Africa. Although it is not aggressive, its bite requires urgent hospitalization because its cytotoxic venom can cause necrosis and blood clots.
Physical Description and Habit.
The adult of the plain mountain adder measures between 25 and 35 cm in length. Although it is relatively short, its body is thick, with about 30 mid-body scale rows. The dorsal side (back) is dull brown, with fainter dark blotches. Its belly is dirty cream, with blotches limited to the sides.
The Bitis inornata is not well known as its habitat is very confined. It is active during the early morning and evening, hiding among stones and grass tussocks to ambush passing lizards, especially skinks and sand lizards. The female bears between 7 and 9 young in the late Summer.
Below, the plain mountain adder busking on a log in the morning shunshine.
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