What Is a Pit Viper?
A pit viper is a type of snake with specific distinguishing characteristics. The New York Times notes in 1991 that there are 144 species of pit vipers, living in a variety of environments all over the world.
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Distinguishing Characteristics
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According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, pit vipers have a telltale set of pits between their nose and each eye. Scientists believe that the pits are special heat-sensing organs that help the snake hunt. Encyclopedia Britannica notes that pit vipers also have movable fangs; the New York Times says that all members of the pit viper family have a rattle--or a precursor to a rattle--on their tails.
Habitat
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According to the New York Times, pit vipers live in a range of habitats, covering North and South America, parts of Europe and Asia. The Encyclopedia Britannica notes that pit vipers are very adaptable; they can live in deserts, mountains or rain forests. Dr. Carl Gans told the New York Times that pit vipers can live on the ground, underground or in trees.
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Species
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Of the 144 pit viper species around the world, probably the most well-known are the rattlesnake, cottonmouth, water moccasin, copperhead and bushmaster, according to the Encyclopedia Britannica. In spite of the large variety of pit vipers worldwide, every single species shares the sensory pits that define this particular family of snakes.
Prey
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According to snake experts interviewed by the New York Times, pit vipers hunt mostly rodents and birds, using their characteristic pits to track prey at night. Pit viper venom subdues and kills the snake's prey and begins to degrade the animal with a combination of neurotoxins, blood toxins and proteins. The New York Times notes that pit vipers usually do not harm humans unless provoked.
Reproduction
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The Encyclopedia Britannica reports that most species of pit viper give birth to live young, although a few species do lay eggs. The New York Times notes that many pit viper mothers will guard eggs until they hatch, unlike other snakes.
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