The many-horned adder (Bitis cornuta) is a medium-size venomous viper. Its natural habitat area is the coastal regions of western Cape and southern Namibia, Africa. As a member of the Viperidae family, its glands secrete cytotoxic venom, which destroys tissue, causing necrosis. This snake usually seeks shelter under rocks and boulders, lying in wait for its prey, which could be small rodents and lizards.
Physical Description
The many-horned adder can grow up to 50 cm in length. Its body is grey, blotched with black/dark brown irregular marks; on its mouth, it has yellowish white speckles. On top of its head, the Bitis cornuta has between 2 and 4 horn-like scales standing up over each eye. Symmetrical dark markings on the crown may fuse to form an arrow head shape.
During the warm season, it is most active during the early morning and evening. The female can bear up to 10 young in late summer.
Below, a many-horned adder adult curled, lying in the morning sunshine.
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