Green night adder

Geographical Origin and Habitat: Causus resimus is a venomous snake native to central, eastern, and western Africa. Its range extends from countries such as Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and southern Sudan to Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, and south to Mozambique and Angola. This species primarily lives in moist savanna zones, alluvial grasslands, riverbanks, swamps, and irrigated agricultural areas. Unlike Causus lichtensteinii, which prefers closed rainforest, Causus resimus favors open areas that are constantly near water and characterized by high soil moisture.

Taxonomy and Genetics: Belonging to the family Viperidae, subfamily Causinae, genus Causus. Described scientifically by Peters in 1862, it is distinguished from other members of the genus by the morphology of its snout. The specific name resimus comes from Latin, meaning 'upturned,' in reference to the prominent shape of the snout. Like other Causus, it has large head shields and exceptionally elongated venom glands that extend into the neck. No subspecies are recognized.

Behavior and Habits: It is a predominantly terrestrial and nocturnal reptile, although it displays moderate activity during crepuscular hours or on cloudy days. It spends the day hidden under plant debris, stones, or inside crevices in clay soil. It is an active hunter that patrols wetlands in search of frogs and toads. When disturbed, it defends itself by visibly flattening its body and neck and hissing threateningly before delivering rapid and precise strikes.

Morphology: The body is moderately robust, covered by weakly keeled scales. The head is short with a characteristic, distinctly upturned and prominent snout. The eyes have round pupils. The average length of adults varies between 50 and 70 centimeters. Dorsal coloration is a bright green or shiny olive-green in freshly shed specimens, sometimes with a series of black inverted V-shaped markings along the back. A very prominent dark inverted V-shaped marking is present on the head. The belly is yellowish-white.

Terrarium Setup: Captive husbandry requires a horizontal terrarium measuring at least 80x50x40 cm for a single specimen, equipped with a safety lock. The ideal substrate must be capable of absorbing moisture without molding, such as a mixture of coconut fiber and fine bark, covered with dry leaves. Provide several dry and damp hiding spots on both sides of the terrarium. A large, heavy water bowl must be placed on the cool side of the tank to encourage rehydration.

Lighting and Heating: Requires a 12-hour photoperiod cycle. The installation of a low-intensity UVB bulb (2-5%) is recommended. Heating must be provided from above using shielded ceramic lamps or radiant panels connected to a thermostat. Ensure a temperature in the hot zone of 28-30°C (82-86°F) and in the cool zone of 24°C (75°F), with a basking spot of 31°C (88°F). At night, the temperature can drop to 20-21°C (68-70°F).

Humidity and Hydration: Humidity must be kept at medium-high levels, between 60% and 70%, recreating the wet grassland environment. It is recommended to mist the terrarium every other day with dechlorinated water. A humid hide containing moist sphagnum moss must always be present to promote proper shedding and avoid problems with retained skin.

Feeding and Supplementation: An amphibian specialist. In captivity, acceptance of rodents (mice) is problematic and often requires scenting techniques to trick the snake's sense of smell. Feed adults every 10-12 days. Vitamin supplementation is not necessary if the animal feeds on healthy whole prey, but it is important not to overfeed to prevent obesity.

Compatibility: A solitary species that requires individual housing. It must not cohabit with other specimens to avoid stress and conflict. Any handling must be done using herpetological hooks and long safety tongs. The venom has local hemotoxic properties: it causes pain, severe edema, and superficial necrosis, making it necessary to avoid any direct contact.

Health and Common Diseases: The main risks include intestinal parasites (common in imported specimens), dehydration if humidity drops too low, respiratory infections due to inadequate temperatures, and dermatitis if the substrate remains wet and dirty. Maintain strict cleanliness standards by promptly removing waste and uneaten food.