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Gaboon Vipers are not only the largest member of the genus Bitis but they have the longest fangs as well as the highest venom yield of any venomous snake. They are slow-moving, primarily nocturnal ambush predators often spending long periods motionless, waiting for suitable prey to move within striking distance. Gaboon vipers can strike with precision from any angle and hang on to its prey with their large fangs rather than letting it go and waiting for it to die. Because of their large body size, these heavy snakes prey frequently on fully grown rabbits, tree monkeys and the small royal antelope.
Bites are relatively rare, due to their docile nature and unwillingness to move even when approached, people are often bitten after they accidentally step on them. When a bite occurs, it should always be considered a serious medical emergency. The snake's venom is not considered particular toxic but its enormous venom glads produce a large quantity of hemotoxic venom. Even a bite from an average-sized specimen is potentially fatal. Antivenom should be administered as soon as possible to save the victim's life if not the affected limb.
In humans, a bite causes rapid swelling, intense pain, severe shock, local blistering and necrosis. Local tissue damage may result in possible amputation. Healing may be slow and fatalities during the recovery period are not uncommon.
Filmed by Heiko Kiera aka Ojatro 2013.
