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Reptile Show Attendees Leave Ball Python In Uber
The snake looks like a pastel enchi ball python and as of this writing (April 9) it has not yet been returned to its owner. Hopefully the owner finds out the police have it. The post Reptile Show Attendees Leave Ball Python In Uber appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
An Uber driver who picked up two reptile show attendees April 4 in Philadelphia got a bit of surprise after his shift ended. Earlier in the ride, his two passengers asked him to stop so they could look for some jewelry they dropped but he wasn’t able to stop. <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126171" class="wp-image-126171 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000.jpg" alt="ball python uber" width="1000" height="1000" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-400x400.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-650x650.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-250x250.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-768x768.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-150x150.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Exeter-Township-Police-Department1000-800x800.jpg 800w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> The ball python in the car. Officer Grycon with the ball python. Hopefully the owner sees this post and can claim the snake. Photo by Exeter Township Police Department/Facebook After the driver’s shift ended, he parked the car in the garage. The next day, according to the Exeter Township Police Department, the driver went back to his car and found the snake, a ball python, in the trunk of his car. The driver then called the police and Officer Karen Grycon was able to secure the snake in a box made the necessary arrangements to keep the reptile safe. The snake looks like a pastel enchi ball python and as of this writing (April 9) it has not yet been returned to its owner. Hopefully the owner finds out the police have it. Ball Python Information Ball pythons are one of the most popular snakes in the hobby and come from western Africa. They are widely captive-bred throughout the United States. They grow to about five feet in length and can live for 30 years or more. If you keep a ball python, or any snake, please ensure that its enclosure is escape-proof. The ball python requires specific care requirements and with the exception of ball python breeders, should be kept in a minimum 50-75 gallon equivalent enclosure, depending on the size of the snake. A 4′ x 2′ x 2′ enclosure is ideal. The bigger the enclosure, the better. And contrary to popular belief, this species does climb. Other morphs in addition to the pastel enchi morph include axanthic, clown, labyrinth, jungle, pastel-jungle, tiger, spider, banded, black, black-backed, ghost, narrow-striped, wide-striped, ringer, black-and-white, high-gold, tyrosinase-positive, caramel albino, tyrosinase-negative, albino, leucistic, just to name a few. The possibilities in creating new morphs of this species is seemingly endless. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Freptile-show-attendees-leave-ball-python-in-uber%2F&title=Reptile%20Show%20Attendees%20Leave%20Ball%20Python%20In%20Uber" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/reptile-show-attendees-leave-ball-python-in-uber/" data-a2a-title="Reptile Show Attendees Leave Ball Python In Uber"> The post Reptile Show Attendees Leave Ball Python In Uber appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
It is estimated that more than 32,000 people die from being bit in Africa every year (estimated approximately 500,000 envenomations) by venomous snakes. The post 10 Venomous Snakes Of Africa appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Just like pretty much anywhere else in the world, excepting perhaps Antarctica, Africa has plenty of dangerous creatures. Understandably, people tend to focus on the large predators that may see you as a snack, or the even larger creatures that can end you just for being nearby. However, snakes in Africa are much more likely to ruin your life (or end it) than a hungry lion, crocodile, or angry hippo. Australia has a deserved reputation as home to the deadliest venomous snakes, but for a variety of reasons, Africa’s most venomous snakes are far, far more likely to kill humans. Snake bite statistics are notoriously unreliable—most aren’t reported, even when death results. Even when they are reported, species identification isn’t always reliable. However, it’s estimated that more than 32,000 people die from being bit in Africa every year (estimated approximately 500,000 envenomations). For all the potency of Australian snakes, there are less than a handful of such deaths yearly. Black Mamba (Dendroaspis polylepis) Truly the king of Africa’s legendary deadly snakes, the black mamba bite is most often fatal to humans if untreated. Even with antivenin treatment, about 14 percent of bite victims succumb and serious disability and long-term health problems affect a large portion of survivors. Untreated bites cause nearly 100 percent mortality. Because of the unique properties of the black mamba venom, bite wounds are unremarkable, with almost no swelling and rather than pain, the victim may feel slight numbness or tingling. Untreated, a healthy adult human can die from a full envenomation in as little as 20 minutes. Black mamba. Photo by reptiles4all/Shutterstock The black mamba is the longest venomous snake in Africa, commonly reaching nearly 10 feet with some specimens exceeding 14 feet. Relatively slender, the black mamba is typically gray, beige, or olive colored, darkening with age. The black moniker comes from its mouth, in which it opens wide as a warning before it strikes. Extremely agile, the strike radius of the black mamba is as much as 5 feet, and many victims receive bites to the upper body where quick onset of symptoms and likelihood of fatality is increased. It typically strikes and envenoms multiple times if provoked. The agility and size of this snake give it the capability to move at speeds above 10 mph for short distances. Despite its reputation as aggressive and unpredictable, it prefers to avoid humans. Scientists Can Monitor Pollution Via Black Mamba Scales <iframe class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Scientists Can Monitor Pollution Via Black Mamba Scales” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/scientists-can-monitor-pollution-via-black-mamba-scales/embed/#?secret=vgioXXtyMP#?secret=Hy3gNWs56S" data-secret="Hy3gNWs56S" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> With its wide range and few natural predators, the black mamba is listed as non-threatened. An egg-laying species that hunts both on the ground and in trees, its preferred prey are small mammals and birds but have been known to take somewhat larger mammals. Although black mamba aren’t the most common source of snake bites in Africa, they are responsible for many of the deaths. Mozambique Spitting Cobra (Naja mossambica) The Mozambique spitting cobra isn’t the deadliest snake in Africa, but it is certainly one of the most feared. Although fatalities are rare, severe disfiguration and blindness can occur when the venom is spit. The snake is incredibly accurate up to 10 feet with its venom and can spit without warning from its raised position (up to 2/3 its length) or prone, even in tight spaces. Its bite is quickly and severely destructive to local tissues, leaving most victims alive, but with permanent impairment. It is a temperamental and quick-to-defend-itself snake that prefers to spit first, bite if it must, then retreat. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126163" class="wp-image-126163 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Mozambique spitting cobra" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/mozambique-spitting-cobra-Photo-by-Craig-Cordier-Shutterstock-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Mozambique spitting cobra. Photo by Craig Cordier/Shutterstock A medium-sized snake with most adult specimens in the 3-foot range, one adult has been observed exceeding 5 feet. A tropical and subtropical species, the spitting cobra enjoys a large range and is listed as “least concern” by the IUCN. It is an egg-laying snake with up to two dozen offspring in a clutch. It has a highly varied diet ranging from insects, amphibians, eggs, small birds and mammals to other snakes, including the legendary black mamba. All About Cobra Snakes Puff adder (Bitis ariens) Maybe the black mamba is more deadly, the spitting cobra more fearsome, but the puff adder may be the snake that causes the most human fatalities in Africa (saw tooth vipers are challengers for this title and are responsible for the most bite-related fatalities in the world). The venom is powerful, about 100 mg can kill a healthy adult and a typical envenomation can deliver between 150 and 350 mg. It has large fangs that are capable of penetrating leather, and it is an ambush hunter that has a huge range. Finally, it has a preference of basking near walking trails and rarely retreats from humans, sometimes striking multiple times before escaping. Serious envenomations are estimated to be lethal more than 50 percent of the time and within approximately a day, but overall, with prompt and effective treatment, the fatality rate is estimated at about 15 percent. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126164" class="wp-image-126164 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock-.jpg" alt="puff adder" width="1000" height="750" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock-.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--400x300.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--650x488.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--250x188.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--768x576.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--150x113.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/puff-adderPhoto-by-Eco-Print-Shutterstock--800x600.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Puff adder. Photo by Eco Print/Shutterstock Essentially everywhere in the southern half of Africa, except for the Sahara, the puff adder population is classified as least concern. Primarily feeding on rodents, other snakes and lizards. A viviparous species, the puff adder holds the snake brood record of more than 150 from a zoo-housed specimen. The most common litter size is 20 to 40 babies. Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) Often referred to as the Gaboon adder, the Gaboon viper is incredibly deadly, but fortunately it accounts for very few human bites. The Gaboon viper is one of the heaviest venomous snakes in the world, the heaviest in Africa, and carries the largest set of fangs, exceeding two inches of any venomous snake. To go with those massive fangs, the Gaboon viper has the second largest venom capacity in the world. Unlike most vipers, it holds its prey until it succumbs, enabling it to deliver as much as 600 mg of venom in a single bite. As little as 35 mg can be fatal to a healthy adult human. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126165" class="wp-image-126165 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Gaboon viper" width="1000" height="719" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-400x288.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-650x467.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-250x180.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-768x552.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-150x108.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/gaboon-viperPhoto-by-Paul-Lloyd-Shutterstock-800x575.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Gaboon viper. Photo by Paul Lloyd/Shutterstock Even rapid treatment with antivenin can leave victims with a long, painful recovery and death can occur weeks after treatment. However, the Gaboon viper is one of the most docile venomous snakes. The sharply defined coloration of this viper is extremely effective as camouflage, even though it’s primarily a nocturnal hunter. Its massive head (needed to house those fangs and absurdly large venom glands) feature the most moveable eyes of any snake species. Herping for Venomous Snakes in Uganda They feed primarily on birds and small mammals, but full-grown rabbits and hare are common prey, with porcupines and even the royal antelope (average weight is 5 lb) reported. Although ambush is its main tactic, it is known to aggressively hunt in grasslands early in the evening. Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje) Reputed to be the means of Cleopatra’s suicide, the Egyptian cobra certainly has the tools to have done that job. Its venom is highly toxic and painful and can result in localized paralysis leading to death as effects move to the heart and lungs. Rated the third most deadly venom of all cobras, a full envenomation is estimated to be fatal to a full-grown elephant and can be fatal to a human in as little as 15 minutes. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126154" class="wp-image-126154 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia.jpg" alt="Egyptian cobra" width="1000" height="714" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-400x286.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-650x464.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-250x179.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-768x548.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-150x107.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/egyptian-cobra-Photo-by-Dotun55-Wikipedia-800x571.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Egyptian cobra. Photo by Dotun55/Shutterstock A large snake that can be as long as 8.5 feet, most average about 4.5 feet. They are relatively stout. Venom potency and coloration vary widely across its range. The brown to rust colored cobras occupying the northern coastal regions above the Sahara have the most potent venom while the nearly black specimens are found in the western areas. The Egyptian cobra generally prefers toads, but will hunt rats and poultry, common in villages. They’ve been known to enter houses in pursuit of chickens and rodents. Its proximity to humans means that bites are fairly common. Quick treatment with antivenin is critical. Boomslang (Dispholidus typus) Boomslang means tree snake. As that name implies, they are excellent climbers and mostly hunt from branches and shrubs in forested areas. Hatchlings, eggs, and small adult birds along with lizards and other snakes, even other boomslangs are prime prey. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126155" class="wp-image-126155 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Boomslang" width="1000" height="657" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-400x263.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-650x427.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-250x164.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-768x505.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-150x99.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/boomslang-Photo-by-Tahmid-Hasan-Sobuj-Shutterstock-800x526.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Boomslang. Photo by Tahmid Hasan-Sobuj/Shutterstock A rear-fanged species with very modest venom capacity (1.5 to 8 mg), the boomslang makes up for lack of quantity with extreme toxicity, with some estimates of a lethal human dose being from 2 to 3 mg. Fortunately, there is a monovalent antivenin available and as deadly as the venom can be, it is pretty slow acting. Bite victims often believe they were not envenomated (dry bite) or that a non lethal dose has been delivered, but untreated, death is likely in 24 to 48 hours. Bites are very rare as the species is extremely timid and quick to escape through the branches or brush where it is found. Although the males are typically a vivid green, females are generally brownish tan, as are juveniles of both sexes. Hatched from eggs, the young (approximately 5 inches in length) develop venom sufficient to threaten humans by the time they are approximately 18-inches in length. Adults can reach a length of about 6 feet, but typically average between 3 and 5 feet in length and about 1 pound. Aside from the coloration and/or likely presence in a tree, the boomslang can be easily identified by its very large eyes. Identification is critical, because if you’re bitten, you’ll need the specific antivenin, even if you think you’re feeling fine. Saw-scaled or carpet vipers (Echis coloratus, Echis hughesi) (Somalia only), (Echis leucogaster, Echis ocellatus), and the closely related Echis pyramidum This is a nasty-tempered aggressive family of very dangerous snakes. Depending on highly debatable statistics, the family could be the biggest killer of humans in Africa, less debate is over its place worldwide—it is arguably the cause of the most snake-bite deaths in the world (some members of this family range throughout the Middle East and into India. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126157" class="wp-image-126157 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="indian saw scaled viper" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/indian-saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Indian saw-scaled viper. Photo by Reptiles4all/Shutterstock It is a small viper type, generally no longer than 2 feet, but some varieties can reach 30 inches or more. They are a relatively stout snake and reported to be surprisingly fast when sidewinding (common for the varieties in sandy sub-Saharan locales. The hughesi variant is even smaller, adults average little more than 12 inches, but it inhabits only a small range in northern Somalia. An egg-laying species with relatively small clutches of 8–20, there is a sexual variance in both toxicity and amount of venom produced. Female venom is approximately twice as potent as male venom, but males produce more. Both are deadly, with mortality rates as high as 20 percent for envenomations which occur at a very high (80 percent) rate. Toxicity and overall volume of venom also varies in most of these snakes with summer being the peak for both. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126156" class="wp-image-126156 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Saw-scaled viper" width="1000" height="664" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-400x266.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-650x432.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-250x166.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-768x510.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/saw-scaled-viper-Photo-by-Reptiles4all-Shutterstock-800x531.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Saw-scaled viper. Photo by Reptiles4all Saw-scaled vipers get their name from the distinctive warning posture where they rapidly rub the extended scales of their tails, creating a sound that has been described as sizzling. Although they provide warning, they are an unpredictable snake and quick to strike. Unlike most other venomous snakes, they will often overstrike, essentially launching themselves toward the perceived threat. Insects and scorpions are their primary prey but depending on the environment, small rodents (mice) and birds, along with snakes and amphibians will be taken. African bush viper (Atheris squamigera) An arboreal snake like the boomslang, the African bush viper differs by preferring the denser rainforests of Western Africa. Generally striking prey from above, hanging by its tail, the bush viper will often drop to the ground to hunt for frogs, small mammals, and even other bush vipers. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126158" class="wp-image-126158 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="African bush viper" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/african-bush-viper-Photo-by-Mark-Kostich-Shutterstock-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> African bush viper. Photo by Mark Kostich/Shutterstock There is no specific antivenin for this species, but treatment using the antivenin developed for Echis is partially effective. Because of its habitat and preferred hunting style, along with a timid disposition, make for few instances of human deaths from bites. Across most of its range (the rainforests of Western Africa) the bush viper is consistently observed as a bright green (grass or tree-leaf green) relatively small snake (less than 2 feet). On the edges of its range, coloration becomes much more varied from yellow to brown. These snakes mate during the rainy season, as high humidity is required. They give live birth to small broods (less than 10 typical) of immediately venomous young. Females tend to be slightly larger than males and much slower to mature. Western green mamba (Dendroaspis viridis; native to West Africa), Eastern green mamba (Dendroaspis angusticeps) East Africa Unlike their close cousins the black mamba, the two species of green mambas are actually the color in their names. Although once classified as variants of the black mamba, there are distinct differences. All three mambas have chemically similar venom, with the black mamba lacking the alpha neurotoxin typical in the three-finger toxin common to mambas. The inclusion of the alpha neurotoxin is likely due to both primarily arboreal green mambas’ reliance on birds for prey whereas the black mamba hunts often for mammals at ground level. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126159" class="wp-image-126159 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock-.jpg" alt="Western green mamba" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock-.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/western-green-mamba-Photo-by-Prill-Shutterstock--800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Western green mamba. Photo by Prill/Shutterstock Again, much like the black mamba, green mambas are long snakes, capable of reaching more than 8 feet, though 6–7 feet is more common. The western variant has the more potent venom of the two, but both are considerably less powerful. However, that certainly doesn’t mean they aren’t potentially fatal. The extremely fast acting venom from a full envenomation can cause respiratory failure and death to an adult human in as little as 30 minutes. Polyvalent antivenin, administered promptly is critical. Aside from potency differences between the green mambas, there are some visible identifiers. The Eastern mamba is almost entirely green, from head to tail. The Western variety typically fades to yellow toward its tail and features black scale edges. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126160" class="wp-image-126160 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Eastern green mamba" width="1000" height="667" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-768x512.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/eastern-green-mamba-Photo-by-Stu-Porter-Shutterstock-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Eastern green mamba. Photo by Stu Porter/Shuttertstock Despite being tree-loving snakes, deforestation in areas doesn’t appear to disrupt populations terribly as long as sufficient brush and cover exists. Both the western and eastern populations are judged stable. South African YouTube Star Dingo Dinkelman Passes From Venomous Green Mamba Bite <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“South African YouTube Star Dingo Dinkelman Passes From Venomous Green Mamba Bite” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/south-african-youtube-star-dingo-dinkelman-passes-from-venomous-green-mamba-bite/embed/#?secret=T8qJFdhyda#?secret=JCt87GM5dF" data-secret="JCt87GM5dF" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> The highly prized (expensive) Western green mamba is collected and traded internationally. Both green mambas are much less active and aggressive than the black mamba and adapt to captivity more readily. Cape cobra (Naja nivea) The cape cobra is the most dangerous cobra in Africa. Exclusive to the southern regions of Africa (thus the name, Cape) the cobra is very much a generalist in both its diet and the terrain it inhabits. It is moderate size for a cobra, averaging about 5 feet with examples exceeding 6 feet. Males are somewhat larger than the egg-laying females. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126161" class="wp-image-126161 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock.jpg" alt="Cape Cobra" width="1000" height="661" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-400x264.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-650x430.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-250x165.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-768x508.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-150x99.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/cape-cobra-Photo-by-Rudi-Zisterer-Shutterstock-800x529.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Cape Cobra. Photo by Rudi Zisterer/Shutterstock One of the reasons the cape cobra is so dangerous to humans is its daylight hunting behavior and its habit of entering homes during hot, sunny days to pursue rodents and presumably for shade. A ground hunter, the cape cobra will climb trees to rob bird nests, but feeds primarily on rodents, lizards, other snakes, birds, and even carrion. It occupies virtually all the habitats of the region, from arid near-desert to grasslands, and into mountainous areas. As with all cobras, the cape cobra has a distinctive threat posture with a flattened neck that it holds high. Although it is likely to retreat when given the opportunity, it strikes (sometimes repeatedly) quite quickly and unpredictably, especially during mating season. A bite from a cape cobra, untreated, is estimated to be fatal to humans in approximately half the cases. That assumes a full envenomation from both fangs. Death (when it occurs) may take 10 hours or more as paralysis leads to respiratory failure. Antivenin is very effective, but even without it, mechanical ventilation and symptom treatment can sometimes be effective. Notes Introduction https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2577696/ “We estimate that, globally, at least 421,000 envenomings and 20,000 deaths occur each year due to snakebite. These figures may be as high as 1,841,000 envenomings and 94,000 deaths. Based on the fact that envenoming occurs in about one in every four snakebites, between 1.2 million and 5.5 million snakebites could occur annually.” http://www.plosmedicine.org/article/slideshow.action?uri=info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pmed.00 50218&imageURI=info%3Adoi%2F10.1371%2Fjournal.pmed.0050218.t002 This study includes charts for estimated envenomings and deaths by region. I combined the numbers from sub Saharan and northern Africa regions. I also noted in the text that those were high estimations. I took the figures for Australian snakebite deaths from those charts as well. Black Mamba https://www.newsweek.com/snake-catcher-paralyzed-struggled-breathe-black-mamba-bite-1682629 “The black mamba is one of the deadliest snakes in the world. If untreated, a bite from the venomous snake has a fatality rate of 100 percent and can kill a person within 30 minutes.” Chasing the above claim in Newsweek I couldn’t find other sources claiming the flat 100% fatality rate, but did find corroborating claims for the speed of fatality, which is admittedly much quicker than typical, but with multiple bites (common), upper body bites (again common) and venom injection directly into the bloodstream via a vein (less common) death actually can occur in as little as 20 minutes. The size of the black mamba is disputed, but an authenticated specimen report of a 13 foot specimen is widely cited and many sources say larger specimens exist. To be fair, most found today are in the 10 feet range. https://zslpublications.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1748-1090.1993.tb03534.x Information for population status for the black mamba and the other listed snakes where mentioned is drawn from the IUCN Red List. The Mozambique spitting cobra Branch, Bill (1998). Field Guide to the Snakes and Other Reptiles of Southern Africa. Ralph Curtis Publishing. p. 109. ISBN 9780883590423. That’s the citation for the size of this snake as well as the info about vision impairment or blindness. Venomous Snakes of the World by Mark O’Shea, Page number 72 is where fatality and disfigurement comes from. Defense Behaviors (spitting, biting, then retreating) from Carruthers, Vincent (2005). The Wildlife of Southern Africa: A Field Guide to the Animals and Plants of the Region. Struik. p. 100. ISBN 978-1- 86872-451-2. The post 10 Venomous Snakes Of Africa appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Brazilian Rainbow Boa Again Gives Birth Via Parthenogenesis
A Brazilian rainbow boa kept at the City of Portsmouth College in Tudor Crescent, Portsmouth, United Kingdom, has given birth to 12 babies via parthenogenesis, marking the second time she has given birth without the aid of a male snake. The post Brazilian Rainbow Boa Again Gives Birth Via Parthenogenesis appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
A Brazilian rainbow boa (Epicrates cenchria cenchria) kept at the City of Portsmouth College in Tudor Crescent, Portsmouth, United Kingdom, has given birth to 12 babies via parthenogenesis, marking the second time she has given birth without the aid of a male snake. The 14-year-old snake, named Ronaldo, gave birth to 14 snakes in 2024 via parthengenesis. This marks the fourth documented case in which a Brazilian rainbow boa reproduced via parthenogenesis, the college said in a news story announcing the births. “I’ve done as much research as I can and I can’t find any record of it happening twice,” Pete Quinlan, animal care technician at COPC said. “I had my suspicions for a couple of weeks and then suddenly she was showing all the signs.” “She was mine for nine years before she came here,” Quinlan said. “And it’s almost time for her to retire and come back to me. She’s clearly had a great time at COPC – for parthenogenesis to happen, the conditions have to be perfect. Which I think is a great testament to the facilities we have here.” Brazilian Rainbow Boa Births 14 Baby Snakes via Parthenogenesis <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Brazilian Rainbow Boa Births 14 Baby Snakes via Parthenogenesis” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/brazilian-rainbow-boa-births-14-baby-snakes-via-parthenogenesis/embed/#?secret=qPa7sgvCVV#?secret=HwJLz6Aqkj" data-secret="HwJLz6Aqkj" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> Reptiles Conceived via Parthenogenesis A variety of species have conceived via parthenogenesis, including Komodo dragons, Asian water dragons, Anacondas, reticulated pythons, New Caledonian giant geckos, and more. According to the college, this is the fourth documented case of parthenogenesis in Brazilian rainbow boas. Rainbow Boa Care Sheet Brazilian rainbow boas are so named due to the beautiful sheen they exude when light shines upon them. It is the most commonly kept subspecies of rainbow boa in captivity. Males grow to about 5 feet in length while females are larger, capable of reaching 6 to 7 feet in length. Their coloration ranges from orange to a dark red with orange and red saddles traversing their backs. Largely nocturnal, the Brazilian rainbow boa are ambush predators. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fbrazilian-rainbow-boa-again-gives-birth-via-parthenogenesis%2F&title=Brazilian%20Rainbow%20Boa%20Again%20Gives%20Birth%20Via%20Parthenogenesis" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/brazilian-rainbow-boa-again-gives-birth-via-parthenogenesis/" data-a2a-title="Brazilian Rainbow Boa Again Gives Birth Via Parthenogenesis"> The post Brazilian Rainbow Boa Again Gives Birth Via Parthenogenesis appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Information On The Southern Pacific Rattlesnake
The Southern Pacific rattlesnake is the most common rattlesnake found in Southern California The post Information On The Southern Pacific Rattlesnake appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
The Southern Pacific rattlesnake is the most common rattlesnake found in Southern California. Its scientific name is Crotalus oreganus helleri. It is sometimes considered a subspecies of the western rattlesnake or northern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus). The Southern Pacific rattlesnake is found in Southern California and in Northern Baja California, Mexico. The snake is found as far north as San Luis Obispo and Kern Counties. Its habitat includes coastal sage scrub, wetlands, chapparal, grasslands and rocky hillside areas. The venom of this species is primarily hemotoxic, which attacks and destroys tissue and blood cells, though it also in some cases has mild neurotoxic effects on those bitten by it. They grow from three to five feet in length. Females are smaller than the males. It is not an aggressive species but will defend itself, like all rattlesnakes. They feed on mice rats, squirrels, and gophers and occasional ground nesting birds and fledglings. They are also known to consume small reptiles and frogs. Rattlesnakes have been in the news lately in Southern California as two residents have died from rattlesnake bites in the last month. The snakes are out earlier than usual as SoCal has experienced warmer weather than usual, and with the rains, the wildflowers are in bloom, which gets people out on the many trails and open spaces in Southern California. In the last two months, there have been four reported, non-fatal rattlesnake bites in Ventura County, one fatal bite in Los Angeles County and one fatal bite in Orange County. What To Do If Bitten By a Rattlesnake If you or someone you are with gets bitten by a Southern Pacific Rattlesnake, or any rattlesnake, call 911. Keep the bite area immobilized and at or slightly below heart level if possible. Remove any tight clothing or jewelry as swelling will likely occur, and get to the nearest hospital, call emergency services as soon as possible. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Finformation-on-the-southern-pacific-rattlesnake%2F&title=Information%20On%20The%20Southern%20Pacific%20Rattlesnake" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/information-on-the-southern-pacific-rattlesnake/" data-a2a-title="Information On The Southern Pacific Rattlesnake"> The post Information On The Southern Pacific Rattlesnake appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Another Southern California Rattlesnake Bite Death Occurred March 19
Southern California has the highest risk for rattlesnake bites due to denser populations that overlap snake habitat, year round recreational activity and a warmer climate. The post Another Southern California Rattlesnake Bite Death Occurred March 19 appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Another Southern California resident has died from a rattlesnake bite, marking the second time this month that someone has died from a venomous snake bite in the state. Gabriela Bautista, 46, and a resident of Moorpark, was hiking in Wildwood Regional Park north of Los Angeles when she was bitten by a rattlesnake right before noon March 14, KTLA.com reports. She was airlifted to Los Robles Regional Medical Center where she later died March 19. According to the Ventura County Medical Examiner’s Office, Bautista died of rattlesnake venom toxicity. Bautista was married with children and was an avid hiker. What is not known is what species of rattlesnake bit Bautista. In the region where Bautista was bitten, the Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus helleri) is known to frequent the area. A teenage girl was also bitten March 20 while riding her bicycle near the Wendy Hill trailhead in nearby Newbury Park. She survived. Wildwood Regional Park and the city of Newbury Park are adjacent to each other. This death makes two in the span of just a month. Julian Enrique Hernandez, 25, of Costa Mesa, CA was biking near the Quail Hill Community Center in Irvine, CA February 1 when he was bitten. Hernandez was transported to a hospital and placed in an intensive care unit, and despite more than a month of treatment, Hernandez died March 4. California has some of the most rattlesnake bites in the country, with an average of more than 800 bites each year. This represents 10 percent of the total rattlesnake bites nationwide, according to the Division of Medical Toxicology at UC San Diego Health System. This could be due to the sheer population of the state, and the ideal year round weather conditions that don’t occur anywhere else in the country. Rattlesnake Venom Potency Snake venom potency can be influenced by the weather and the prey that venomous rattlesnakes snakes eat, according to a research paper put out by the University of Michigan Life Sciences Institute. The university researchers, along with those from the University of Nevada Reno and the University of Utah studied how blood serum samples of wild Desert woodrats (Neotoma lepida) have evolved to resist rattlesnake venom. These rodents can survive from 500 to 1000 times the amount of venom that kills a lab mouse, the researchers said. Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Survives Getting Swallowed By Eastern Indigo Snake <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Eastern Diamondback Rattlesnake Survives Getting Swallowed By Eastern Indigo Snake” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/eastern-diamondback-rattlesnake-survives-getting-swallowed-by-eastern-indigo-snake/embed/#?secret=HaWEEFoVIj#?secret=pIEBcmZGJx" data-secret="pIEBcmZGJx" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> “Even across different populations of the same snake species, eating the same prey, we see evolutionary differences in their venoms,” Matthew Holding, Ph.D., lead author of the study and an evolutionary biologist in the University of Michigan Life Sciences Institute. “With this study, we really wanted to dig into what drives these differences in the natural coevolutionary arms races between the snakes and their prey.” Could Rattlesnake Venom Potency Be A Factor In These Deaths? According to Biology Insights, there are 7,000 to 8,000 venomous snake bites in the United States each year, with 90 percent of those bites attributed to rattlesnakes. Of these, about five to six deaths occur per year. In California, there are about 800 snake bites each year, when factoring in unreported incidents, according to the Environmental Literacy Council. Of the bites, one to two deaths occur in the state from rattlesnake bites. These deaths often occur due to delayed treatment with antivenin, allergic reactions, and severe envenomation in vulnerable individuals. Weather And Prey Factor In Venomous Snake Venom Potency <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Weather And Prey Factor In Venomous Snake Venom Potency” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/weather-and-prey-factor-in-venomous-snake-venom-potency/embed/#?secret=EoG2GNMZl0#?secret=UvUstBmqqO" data-secret="UvUstBmqqO" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> Rattlesnake Bite Risk In California Southern California has the highest risk for rattlesnake bites due to denser populations that overlap snake habitat, year round recreational activity and a warmer climate. The Southern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus helleri) is the species most responsible for the bites in Southern California, while the Northern Pacific rattlesnake (Crotalus oreganus oreganus) is most responsible for Northern California bites. The venom of these snakes are mostly hemotoxic. This causes pain and swelling, bruising and bleeding and tissue necrosis. Their venom can also be neurotoxic, based on the locality. Some populations are hemotoxic while others aer neurotoxic and some have mixed venom. Neurotoxic envenomations affect the nervous system and can cause muscle weakness as well as difficulty speaking or swallowing and in some cases, breathing problems. What To Do If A Rattlesnake Bites You What To Do If Bitten By A Rattlesnake Stay calm and call 911 if possible. Movement spreads venom faster. Keep the bite at or slightly below hear level. Remove any jewelry, or tight clothing as swelling can happen very quickly. immobilize the limb and try not to use the area where the bite occurred. Get to a hospital as fast as possible. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fanother-southern-california-rattlesnake-bite-death-occurred-march-19%2F&title=Another%20Southern%20California%20Rattlesnake%20Bite%20Death%20Occurred%20March%2019" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/another-southern-california-rattlesnake-bite-death-occurred-march-19/" data-a2a-title="Another Southern California Rattlesnake Bite Death Occurred March 19"> The post Another Southern California Rattlesnake Bite Death Occurred March 19 appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
3 Geckos And A Venomous Snake From Cambodia Being Described
The researchers spent several years exploring more than 60 caves in Battambang Province in western Cambodia. The post 3 Geckos And A Venomous Snake From Cambodia Being Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Researchers with Fauna & Flora and with collaboration from Cambodia’s Ministry of Environment have released information on several new reptile species that call Cambodia’s karst ecosystems home. The researchers spent several years exploring more than 60 caves in Battambang Province in western Cambodia, covering 10 hills. The expedition uncovered three new gecko species, and a new pit viper species. “Cambodia’s karst areas are a treasure trove of scientific secrets waiting to be uncovered. From undiscovered reptiles and snails, to hidden caves – there is still so much we do not know about these unique ecosystems and the diversity of creatures living within them, Sothearen Thi, Karst Biodiversity Coordinator, Fauna & Flora said in a statement released to the media. “But, without sustainable management, we may never find out what these areas truly hold. Karst landscapes are facing many human-driven challenges, and biologically significant species could go extinct before they have even been discovered. We are working with the Cambodian government and local partners to increase protection of the landscapes, with sustainable management being the number one priority.” <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126130" class="wp-image-126130 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species.jpg" alt="Gehyra sp." width="1000" height="668" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-400x267.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-650x434.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-250x167.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-768x513.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-150x100.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/gehyra-species-800x534.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Gehyra species. Photo © Phyroum Chourn /Fauna & Flora “Battambang is composed of isolated karstic hills and caves; each acting as its own laboratory of natural selection and evolution,” Dr. Lee Grismer, professor of biology at La Sierra University, USA and a supporter of the survey team said. “Think of it as their own vignette of biodiversity, where nature is performing the same experiment over and over again independently. We go to these separate places and analyse the DNA of the species, and we see how the experiment has run. Some look alike, some look different, and by analysing this we can get an idea of what the driving forces are behind the way they evolve. If we are truly going to conserve the biodiversity on this planet, we need to understand what is there. We can’t protect something if we don’t know it exists.” <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126126" class="wp-image-126126 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000.jpg" alt="Trimeresurus" width="1000" height="633" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-400x253.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-650x411.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-250x158.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-768x486.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-150x95.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Trimeresurus-speceis1000-800x506.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Trimeresurus sp. Photo © Phyroum Chourn /Fauna & Flora A new species of pit viper from the Trimeresurus genus was found during the survey. It is currently being described. The venomous snake is green in coloration with yellowish eyes and rust-red coloration on top of the tail while retaining the green body coloration on the botton. The tip of the tail is also a rust red. The Trimeresurus genus of pit vipers are found in Asia. Currently, 44 recognized species have been described. This one will be the 45th. They are also known as Asian palm pit vipers, Asian lanceheads and green pit vipers. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126122" class="wp-image-126122 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000.jpg" alt="Cyrtodactylus" width="1000" height="625" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-400x250.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-650x406.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-250x156.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-768x480.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-150x94.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-species1000-800x500.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Cyrtodactylus. Photo by Phyroum Chourn /Fauna & Flora The researchers discovered four populations of a new species of gecko from the genus Cyrtodactylus. The gecko, named the Kamping Poi bent-toed gecko was found in the karst formations, The researchers think that the four populations may be distinct and on separate evolutionary trajectories. Further genetic testing will determine if they are four species instead of one. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126128" class="wp-image-126128 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000.jpg" alt="Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis" width="1000" height="643" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-400x257.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-650x418.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-250x161.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-768x494.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-150x96.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Cyrtodactylus-kampingpoiensis1000-800x514.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Cyrtodactylus kampingpoiensis Photo © Phyroum Chourn /Fauna & Flora The Battambang leaf-toed gecko, Dixonius noctivagus, is covered in small leopard-like spots, the researchers said. It is named after its nocturnal lifestyle. Noctivagus means night wanderer in Latin. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126127" class="wp-image-126127 size-large" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-650x411.jpg" alt="Dixonius sp" width="650" height="411" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-650x411.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-400x253.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-250x158.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-768x486.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-1536x971.jpg 1536w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-2048x1295.jpg 2048w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-150x95.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-800x506.jpg 800w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-1200x759.jpg 1200w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-1600x1012.jpg 1600w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Dixonius-jpg-2000x1265.jpg 2000w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px" /> Dixonius sp (Phnom Thippadei Battambang) Photo © Phyroum Chourn /Fauna & Flora A new species of gecko in the Gehyra genus has been discovered and is currently being described. The gecko has toe pads and claws and communicates via clicks and chirps that the researchers say is similar to house geckos. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126129" class="wp-image-126129 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius.jpg" alt="Dixonius sp." width="1000" height="658" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-400x263.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-650x428.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-250x165.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-768x505.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-150x99.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/dixonius-800x526.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Dixonius sp. Photo © Phyroum Chourn / Fauna & Flora Researchers Discover And Describe New Gecko Species From Cambodia <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Researchers Discover And Describe New Gecko Species From Cambodia” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/researchers-discover-and-describe-new-gecko-species-from-cambodia/embed/#?secret=BrDwwzmpLu#?secret=22PdGdYIK4" data-secret="22PdGdYIK4" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2F3-geckos-and-a-venomous-snake-from-cambodia-being-described%2F&title=3%20Geckos%20And%20A%20Venomous%20Snake%20From%20Cambodia%20Being%20Described" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/3-geckos-and-a-venomous-snake-from-cambodia-being-described/" data-a2a-title="3 Geckos And A Venomous Snake From Cambodia Being Described"> The post 3 Geckos And A Venomous Snake From Cambodia Being Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
New Hampshire Receives Ecosystem Restoration Award To Help Herps
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The award will help the state to bolster reptile and amphibian populations by upgrading road infrastructure to reduce road mortality. The post New Hampshire Receives Ecosystem Restoration Award To Help Herps appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
The state of New Hampshire’s, Fish and Game Department’s Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program was awarded a grant from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation America’s Ecosystem Restoration Initiative to help support upgrading road infrastructure at four critical locations in the state to help wildlife. “Wetland fragmentation and road densities pose direct threats to semi-aquatic turtles and vernal pool amphibians as they move through the landscape for reproduction, food, shelter, and dispersal,” Sandi Houghton, a Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program biologist said in a statement released by New Hampshire Fish and Game. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-98893" class="wp-image-98893 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/31be509a/Blandings-turtle500.jpg" alt="Blandings Turtle500" width="712" height="534" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/31be509a/Blandings-turtle500.jpg 712w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/31be509a/Blandings-turtle500-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" /> The Blanding’s turtle is a critically imperiled species native to New Hampshire. Photo by Ryan M. Bolton/Shutterstock The grant, called the “Restoring Habitat Connectivity to Benefit At-Risk Wildlife in New Hampshire” will provide funding to help reduce wildlife mortality. It will help to ensure habitats are connected rather than fragmented. It will also help with wildlife safety, flood resiliency and culvert condition. “The City of Keene is a strong supporter of amphibian conservation as demonstrated by the implementation of road closures on nights when amphibians are likely to migrate, as we have since 2018,” said Duncan Watson, Former Keene Department of Public Works Assistant Director. “We see the project as a natural progression in our efforts to conserve amphibians.” The selected sites were chosen after being monitored for decades. The state will employ restoration techniques to help mitigate road mortality of the state’s wildlife. This will include new culvert underpasses and guide walls to help animals move via safe passages created by the state. This should help to mitigate road mortality and keep connectivity between populations. This connectivity helps with genetic diversity as well as population viability. Turtle Road Mortality Some Drivers Deliberately Run Over Turtles, Study Shows <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Some Drivers Deliberately Run Over Turtles, Study Shows” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/some-drivers-deliberately-run-over-turtles-study-shows/embed/#?secret=2xaWswxF6W#?secret=oIlnr64bPu" data-secret="oIlnr64bPu" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> “Turtle road mortality is widespread in New Hampshire, and a leading cause of population declines,” Joshua Megyesy, Nongame and Endangered Wildlife Program Turtle Biologist said in a statement released to the media. “Roads that bisect wetlands or upland nesting habitats lead to more females in the population getting hit by cars. With their late age of sexual maturity and low hatchling survival rates, population recovery is a real challenge, however new wildlife passages and upgrades show great promise in reducing this threat.” Study Of Blanding's Turtles On New Hampshire Air Force Base Nears Completion <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Study Of Blanding's Turtles On New Hampshire Air Force Base Nears Completion” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/study-of-blandings-turtles-on-new-hampshire-air-force-base-nears-completion/embed/#?secret=11ioBCSvG8#?secret=6QTCU10QFo" data-secret="6QTCU10QFo" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fnew-hampshire-receives-ecosystem-restoration-award-to-help-herps%2F&title=New%20Hampshire%20Receives%20Ecosystem%20Restoration%20Award%20To%20Help%20Herps" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/new-hampshire-receives-ecosystem-restoration-award-to-help-herps/" data-a2a-title="New Hampshire Receives Ecosystem Restoration Award To Help Herps"> The post New Hampshire Receives Ecosystem Restoration Award To Help Herps appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Python Blood May Hold Key To New Weight Loss Drugs
The researchers at the University of Colorado, Boulder were not even looking for a weight loss solution when they were studying the Burmese python. The post Python Blood May Hold Key To New Weight Loss Drugs appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
Researchers at Stanford Medicine and the University of Colorado, Boulder have studied what happens to the blood of the Burmese python (Python bivittatus) after a meal and have determined that a metabolite called pTOS in the blood that spikes in pythons after a meal also causes fat laboratory mice to refuse their food and lose weight. The researchers say that this phenomenon mimics the effects of drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy. The researchers note that they are uncertain that the metabolite in the Burmese python will result in a new pharmaceutical drug to reduce weight loss in humans. They do say that the study bolsters “the power of studying extremes in the animal kingdom.” The researchers say that reptiles have contributed so much in creating drugs to help humans. They cite snake venom in creating blood pressure medicines and anticoagulants as well as a semaglutide that was discovered in a Gila monster hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-99544" class="wp-image-99544 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663.jpg" alt="Ball Python" width="712" height="534" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663.jpg 712w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/data-import/48a6ed0e/ball-python-shutterstock_305192663-300x225.jpg 300w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 712px) 100vw, 712px" /> The researchers conducted tests on the ball python (Python regius) and were able to identify more than 200 metabolites that increased 32-fold in the blood of the ball python hours after feeding and 24 that decreased by an equal margin. Photo by RAYphotographer/Shutterstock The researchers at the University of Colorado, Boulder were not even looking for a weight loss solution when they were studying the Burmese python. They wondered about the sudden growth of the heart after a Burmese python feeds, and upon examining the blood, they came across the metabolite. They then conducted tests on the ball python (Python regius) and were able to identify more than 200 metabolites that increased 32-fold in the blood of the ball python hours after feeding and 24 that decreased by an equal margin. The pTOS metabolite increased more than a thousand times after the meal. Reptiles And Amphibians In Pharmaceutical Research <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Reptiles And Amphibians In Pharmaceutical Research” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/reptiles-and-amphibians-in-pharmaceutical-research/embed/#?secret=j0JYvSzCwk#?secret=H5HnlQ2mks" data-secret="H5HnlQ2mks" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> “We wondered whether this metabolite affected any of the post-feeding physiological changes in the snake,” co-author Jonathan Long, PhD, associate professor of pathology and a member of the Wu Tsai Neurosciences Institute told the Stanford Medicine News Center. “But when we administered pTOS to laboratory mice at levels similar to what we saw in the pythons after eating, we didn’t see any effect on energy expenditure, beta cell proliferation or organ size. What it did regulate was the appetite and feeding behaviors of the mice.” The complete study, “Python metabolomics uncovers a conserved postprandial metabolite and gut–brain feeding pathway” can be read on the nature metabolism website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fpython-blood-may-hold-key-to-new-weight-loss-drugs%2F&title=Python%20Blood%20May%20Hold%20Key%20To%20New%20Weight%20Loss%20Drugs" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/python-blood-may-hold-key-to-new-weight-loss-drugs/" data-a2a-title="Python Blood May Hold Key To New Weight Loss Drugs"> The post Python Blood May Hold Key To New Weight Loss Drugs appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
USCBP Seize 39 Live Pythons At Texas Border Crossing
When the officers encountered the driver, the driver gave a negative declaration of prohibited goods. The post USCBP Seize 39 Live Pythons At Texas Border Crossing appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection announced March 17 that Office of Field Operations officers intercepted 39 live pythons that were hidden within a tractor at the World Trade Bridge March 5. The officers encountered a 2021 Peterbuilt tractor that was traveling into Mexico. The officers selected the driver and the tractor for inspection. When the officers encountered the driver, the driver gave a negative declaration of prohibited goods, according to a press release put out by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The search of the tractor, however revealed 39 live pythons. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service was contacted and its agents took custody of the reptiles. because the condition of the pythons they were transported to a controlled environment. The tractor and trailer were seized and the case remains under investigation. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126108" class="wp-image-126108 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/seized-pythons2.jpg" alt="seized pythons" width="600" height="410" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/seized-pythons2.jpg 600w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/seized-pythons2-400x273.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/seized-pythons2-250x171.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/seized-pythons2-150x103.jpg 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 600px) 100vw, 600px" /> The bags had 39 live pythons. They were headed for Mexico. According to USCBP, penalties totaling $34,824 were issued for export violations. “Exporting live reptiles from the United States to Mexico requires compliance with several U.S. and international regulations. For authoritative information on the processes and requirements for exporting live reptiles, please refer to the following sources to avoid fines and penalties,” USCBP wrote in its press release. Those sources include: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fws.gov%2Fprogram%2Fwildlife-import-export&data=05%7C02%7CRICHARD.J.PAUZA%40CBP.DHS.GOV%7Ccf4f9bf2634f4434ee0808de842bdc51%7Ce4b16b844c564f279af730345a161ad4%7C0%7C0%7C639093521086098645%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bbJVAIx9x5IlWraLoSvoz5%2Bf8t0%2FyuXDqiGC8NyFprY%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Wildlife Import/Export Requirements U.S. Department of Agriculture – <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.aphis.usda.gov%2Faphis%2Fourfocus%2Fanimalhealth%2Fexport&data=05%7C02%7CRICHARD.J.PAUZA%40CBP.DHS.GOV%7Ccf4f9bf2634f4434ee0808de842bdc51%7Ce4b16b844c564f279af730345a161ad4%7C0%7C0%7C639093521086116614%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=MbzDg38%2Fxogu8WYsKDOqAeNDyUlM8KDxqyVX6x92tEQ%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service APHIS Animal Health Export Requirements U.S. Census Bureau – <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.census.gov%2Fforeign-trade%2Fregulations%2Findex.html&data=05%7C02%7CRICHARD.J.PAUZA%40CBP.DHS.GOV%7Ccf4f9bf2634f4434ee0808de842bdc51%7Ce4b16b844c564f279af730345a161ad4%7C0%7C0%7C639093521086133999%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=JRck8i1hV4O1Y%2FKByq2GOED00t8WeNgQI0DQ5a2pWfU%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Foreign Trade Regulations Foreign Trade Regulations (FTR) Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fws.gov%2Fprogram%2Finternational-affairs%2Fcites&data=05%7C02%7CRICHARD.J.PAUZA%40CBP.DHS.GOV%7Ccf4f9bf2634f4434ee0808de842bdc51%7Ce4b16b844c564f279af730345a161ad4%7C0%7C0%7C639093521086151275%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJFbXB0eU1hcGkiOnRydWUsIlYiOiIwLjAuMDAwMCIsIlAiOiJXaW4zMiIsIkFOIjoiTWFpbCIsIldUIjoyfQ%3D%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=FoeaOuU3DXWobzockF%2BLD1Gw5IJ5XTpU3kXIBQiYmmo%3D&reserved=0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">CITES U.S. Information <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fuscbp-seize-39-live-pythons-at-texas-border-crossing%2F&title=USCBP%20Seize%2039%20Live%20Pythons%20At%20Texas%20Border%20Crossing" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/uscbp-seize-39-live-pythons-at-texas-border-crossing/" data-a2a-title="USCBP Seize 39 Live Pythons At Texas Border Crossing"> The post USCBP Seize 39 Live Pythons At Texas Border Crossing appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
New Forest Gecko Species From The Philippines Described
Luperosaurus alvarezi is currently known to exist only in a protected forest area that surrounds Mt. Guiting-Guiting National Park, in central Sibuyan Island in the Romblon Island group. The post New Forest Gecko Species From The Philippines Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.
A new forest gecko species from the central Philippines has been discovered and described. The gecko, Luperosaurus alvarezi, is described based on two species collected from Sibuyan Island in Romblon Province in the Central Philippines. Its closest relatives are L. cumingii (southern Luzon), L. angliit (northern Luzon), L. corfieldi (from Panay and Negros islands), and L. macgregori (the Babuyan and Batanes island groups), according to the researchers. These lizards are far from the locality of Luperosaurus alvarezi, which is currently known to only exist on the deep water Sibuyan Island in the middle of the island archipelago. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-126101" class="wp-image-126101 size-full" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown.jpg" alt="Luperosaurus alvarezi" width="1000" height="334" srcset="https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown.jpg 1000w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-400x134.jpg 400w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-650x217.jpg 650w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-250x84.jpg 250w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-768x257.jpg 768w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-150x50.jpg 150w, https://reptilesmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Luperosaurus_alvarezi-Meneses_Brown-800x267.jpg 800w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /> Luperosaurus alvarezi is described based on two species collected from Sibuyan Island in Romblon Province in the Central Philippines. Photographs by Camila G. Meneses and Rafe M. Brown. The gecko is named after the late James Alvarez, a renowned Filipino taxonomist-ecologist and bat expert who fell ill and died while trekking up Mt. Apo in 2018. The mountain is the country’s highest peak at 9,692 feet (2,954 meters) and close to Kidapawan City, where Alvarez began his ill-fated expedition. Luperosaurus alvarezi has a snout to vent length of 66.1mm (male) and 78.3mm (female). The gecko is mottled dark brown in coloration on the extremities, midbody, tail and dorsal surface of the head. The color pattern is rough, sparse and uneven. Coloration above the eyes are bright yellow. Ventral surfaces of the head are yellow, and the iris is a light gray to blue. Deforestation Leads To Hybrid Leyte Chorus Frog In The Philippines <iframe loading="lazy" class="wp-embedded-content" sandbox="allow-scripts" security="restricted" title="“Deforestation Leads To Hybrid Leyte Chorus Frog In The Philippines” — Reptiles Magazine" src="https://reptilesmagazine.com/deforestation-leads-to-hybrid-leyte-chorus-frog-in-the-philippines/embed/#?secret=Np9iut6cp0#?secret=LFtbABAKrh" data-secret="LFtbABAKrh" width="600" height="338" frameborder="0" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" scrolling="no"> Luperosaurus alvarezi is currently known to exist only in a protected forest area that surrounds Mt. Guiting-Guiting National Park, in central Sibuyan Island in the Romblon Island group. The complete paper describing the species, “A new species of fringed Forest Gecko, genus Luperosaurus (Squamata: Gekkonidae), from Sibuyan Island, Central Philippines,” can be read on the PeerJ Journal website. <a class="a2a_dd addtoany_share_save addtoany_share" href="https://www.addtoany.com/share#url=https%3A%2F%2Freptilesmagazine.com%2Fnew-forest-gecko-species-from-the-philippines-described%2F&title=New%20Forest%20Gecko%20Species%20From%20The%20Philippines%20Described" data-a2a-url="https://reptilesmagazine.com/new-forest-gecko-species-from-the-philippines-described/" data-a2a-title="New Forest Gecko Species From The Philippines Described"> The post New Forest Gecko Species From The Philippines Described appeared first on Reptiles Magazine.