Body measurements
Attribute | Measurement | |
---|---|---|
Weight | 3-5 kg (7-10 lb), or more, for an adult | |
Length | Up to 203 cm (up to 6.66 ft) |
Body scales of a Mangshan pit viper.
Protective melanin pigment accumulates in scales around the snake's venom glands. This prevents the venom from degrading in sunlight.
Image credit: © San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. All rights reserved.
Boyer (2010)
Chen (1990), translated in David & Tong (1997)
Daltry et al. (1996)
Daltry et al. (1997)
Gumprecht et al. (2002)
Hayes et al. (2002)
Mebs et al. (2006)
Pough et al. (1978)
Pough & Groves (1983)
Zug (1993)