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West African Gaboon Viper — Fact Sheet

Bitis rhinoceros · West African Gaboon Viper

📋 At a glance

Adult size120-180 cm
Lifespan15-25 years
SubspeciesNo captive-care subspecies split
OriginSee the full care guide for distribution details.
ActivityNocturnal
DifficultyExpert
LegalCITES: not listed; EU: not listed; local rules still apply

🏠 Enclosure

  • Use the enclosure dimensions, heating, humidity, and safety values from the structured care profile and full care guide.

🌡️ Temperature

  • Basking spot: 28-30 °C
  • Warm zone: 23-27 °C
  • Cool zone: 21-24 °C
  • Night: 20-23 °C

🪳 Feeding

  • Feed according to the prey type and schedule in the structured care profile; remove uneaten prey promptly.

🩺 Health — warning signs

  • Watch for appetite loss, abnormal posture, injury, breathing issues, failed shedding or molting, and sustained weight loss.