The common puff adder will inflate itself with air when disturbed, which is how the name is derived. It is the most widespread poisonous snake in Africa, and the common puff adder lives in close proximity to humans in built-up areas.
Other names: Afrikaans -- Pofadder :
This large, thick-bodied snake is sluggish, and is reluctant to move out of the way, which results in a large number of snake bites by this species. The common puff adder has a broad head covered in small scales, the body scales are rough, and the tail is very short.
The well-camouflaged snake remains immobile to escape attention, often bringing people within striking distance before they become aware of its presence. Puff adders strike rapidly, and the fangs penetrate deeply. There is immediate and excruciating pain, increasing swelling that could reach huge proportions, and loss of blood from general circulation into tissue, which could lead to collapse and even be fatal if blood transfusions are not administered. At a later stage large blisters and tissue-death at the bite site occurs, with the possibility of a permanent disability.
Interesting facts about Common Puff Adder statistics / bio:
Reproduction (Breeding): Newly laid eggs contain fully formed young, which emerge immediately, and are fully capable of killing as soon as they are hatched. Up to 30 young are born during the late summer.
Distribution (Range): The common puff adder is found widely throughout southern Africa, except for the western desert region.
Size: They will grow to a length of 70-90 cm.
Colour: The common puff adder has a colour range from straw yellow to light brown or orange-brown, with a series of pale-edged, lack backward pointing chevrons - V shaped markings - along the back and tail. The belly of the puff adder is pale with scattered blotches. The males of the species are brighter than the females. Specimens from the western part of the area are usually lighter on colour.
Most like: They closely resemble the berg adder or gaboon adder, but the puff adder's distinctive chevron markings make it easily distinguishable.
Habitat: The live in a wide variety of habitats, from dry savannah to high rainfall areas.
Best places to see the Common Puff Adder in Southern Africa:
• Kruger National Park
 Snakes of Southern Africa >> Printable Snake List <<
South African Snakes >> Printable Snake List <<
Wildlife - Fauna & Flora of Southern Africa
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