Puff Adder

Pofadder · Bitis arietans

A thick, slow-moving snake with a beautiful chevron pattern that blends perfectly into leaves and sand. Because it stays still and relies on camouflage instead of fleeing, it is responsible for many snakebites, so paths are walked with care. Its venom is dangerous. When threatened it puffs up and hisses loudly, and it strikes with surprising speed.

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How to identify it

A short, fat, well-camouflaged snake with dark V-shaped chevrons down its back and a broad, triangular head.

Where to see it in Kruger

Found throughout the park in grassland and bush, often lying motionless on warm roads or sandy paths at dusk.

Did you know

It strikes faster than almost any snake, snapping forward in a fraction of a blink!

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