Tonkin Pit Viper

Geographical Origin and Habitat: This species inhabits cool, damp mountain regions of East and Southeast Asia, hiding among dry leaf litter, tree roots, and rocky debris on the forest floor.

Taxonomy and Genetics: The genus Ovophis comprises Asian mountain pit vipers, morphologically distinguished by their heavy bodies and terrestrial lifestyle adapted to moderate temperatures.

Behavior and Habits: Terrestrial, primarily crepuscular or nocturnal. Secretive and slow-moving, relying heavily on brown camouflage to blend with soil and leaf litter.

Morphology: Stout body colored in gray or brown with dark blotches. Broad, triangular head. Females are significantly larger and heavier than males.

Terrarium Setup: Use a horizontally oriented enclosure with a deep layer of moist peat moss and leaf litter to allow the snake to partially burrow.

Lighting and Heating: Maintain cool daytime temperatures around 19-23°C. Avoid heat spikes above 26°C. Provide low-output UVB lighting.

Humidity and Hydration: Maintain stable humidity at 70-85%. Mist regularly and keep a shallow dish of clean water available on the enclosure floor.

Feeding and Supplementation: Feed thawed rodents every 10-14 days. Dust prey with reptile calcium and multivitamin supplements once a month.

Compatibility: Strictly solitary. House individually to prevent stress or cannibalism, which can occur between unequal sizes.

Health and Common Diseases: Prone to skin fungal infections if substrate remains waterlogged and soiled. Highly sensitive to heat stroke.