Photo of The Day

Photo of The Day

National Geograpich's Photo

The rhinoceros viper, also called the river jack, can grow to be somewhat large in size.
 Adults normally grow to be 2 to 4 feet in length. One source even cites them as being able to reach up to 7 feet in length! The head of this animal is considerably smaller in size than its body.

 The rhinoceros viper's head is one of its most distinguishing characteristics. The rhino viper's head is in a triangular shape. There are 2 or 3 "horns" above each nostril. The coloration of the rhinoceros viper is incredible. Because of the various patterns and colors, the rhino viper has often been regarded as one of the most beautiful snakes in the world (see the above picture).

 Coloration in the rhinoceros viper is an adaptive feature. The degree of light and dark colors of this snake depends on its habitat. This wetland species of adders has darker colors which allow it to blend well with the jungle floor where it would most likely be found.