3.3K views · 42 reactions | The Puff Adder (Bitis arietans) a highly venomous snake that together with the Mozambique Spitting, Cobra accounts for the majority of serious snake bites in Southern Africa. As the common name suggests, when threatened the Puff Adder will begin hissing and puffing by rapidly inhaling and exhaling air serving as an early warning system not to mess with it. | African Snakebite Institute | Facebook

38K views · 263 reactions | This video of a Snouted Cobra (Naja annulifera) killing a Puff Adder (Bitis arietans arietans) is doing the rounds on social media. Cobras, especially the Snouted Cobra and Cape Cobra (Naja nivea) are well known for eating Puff Adders and often get bitten in the process. They appear to be immune against the venom of other snakes and appear to suffer no ill effects after such bites. Source unknown. | African Snakebite Institute | Facebook

Have you seen a puff adder on safari? 🐍😲 Interestingly, these highly venomous snakes move in a straight line (like a caterpillar), as opposed to the curved, serpentine motion seen in most other snake species. 🎥 Video captured within Pilanesberg National Park by @marcus.kapp. | South African Tourism UK

The Puff Adder is widespread over much of South Africa and elsewhere further north into Africa. It is a heavy-bodied snake that relies on its excellent camouflage and is reluctant to move. Much of its life is spent in camouflage mode and recent research has shown that when hiding, the Puff Adder will not hiss or strike when approached, as this would give away its presence. It is an ambush hunter that will coil up into a striking position and await its prey. This can last several days or even wee

The puff adder is a highly venomous viper species; and the most common and widespread snake of southern Africa. They reach about 1.0m in total length and are very stout. They ambush their prey which is primarily rodents but will take birds, amphibians, lizards and even tortoises. As the days start increasing in temperature, snakes will be more active. Thanks to guide Margaux for the footage! #snakeseason #warmweather #puffadder #easterncape #safari #reptiles #southafrica #kariegagamereserve #wil