Take a boat through the mangroves of Krabi and find Trimeresurus purpureomaculatus, the Mangrove Pit Viper on a day trip on the Krabi River.
This is one snake native to Krabi that very few people get to see because it is limited to the coastal areas, and primarily the partly-submerged mangrove trees in the brackish water around Krabi Town and off-shore.
Book a Snake Tour through the Krabi Mangroves Now for up to 4 people (Special Price) >
Mangrove pit vipers, also known as mangrove pit vipers or mangrove pit vipers (Trimeresurus purpureomaculatus), are fascinating and formidable creatures. Here’s a comprehensive look at these snakes, focusing on their characteristics, habitat, behavior, and significance in Southern Thailand.
Mangrove Pit Viper Essentials
- Appearance – Mangrove pit vipers are typically dark gray, brown, or black, and are adorned with distinctive purple, yellow, or light brown blotches along their bodies. These blotches give them a unique and striking appearance. The snake’s underside is usually a lighter color, which helps in blending with the mangrove environment. They are quite hard to find on your own, but our Thai guide can really spot them.
- Size – Adult snakes of this species usually measure between 60-90 cm in length, though some individuals can grow a bit longer. They have a relatively thick build compared to other Southern Thailand pit vipers.
- Venom – As a member of the pit viper family, Trimeresurus purpureomaculatus possesses potent venom. Their venom is hemotoxic, which means it affects the blood, causing pain, swelling, and tissue damage. While bites can be serious and require medical attention, fatalities are rare with prompt and appropriate treatment.
Habitat Found In
- Mangroves and Coastal Areas – True to their name, mangrove pit vipers primarily inhabit mangrove forests and coastal regions. These environments provide ample hiding spots and a rich supply of prey. Occasionally they are also found in and on boats and docks, and surrounding hillside close to the water.
- Geographical Range – They are found throughout Southeast Asia, including Southern Thailand, Malaysia, and Singapore. In Thailand, they thrive in the mangrove swamps along the coasts of the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand.
- Adaptations – Their coloration and patterning provide excellent camouflage among the roots and branches of mangrove trees, helping them avoid predators and ambush prey.
- Roots – You’ll find them most often on the roots extending out of the water, and within about a meter of the top of the water. If it is low-tide, they may be on the mud roaming around hunting for food in daylight hours.
Mangrove Pit Viper Behavior
- Nocturnal Hunters – Mangrove pit vipers are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active during the night. This nocturnal behavior helps them avoid the heat of the day and reduces the risk of encounters with predators. Please note, we have also seen them crawling over the mud when the water recedes during low tide.
- Diet – Their diet consists mainly of small mammals, birds, frogs, and sometimes other reptiles. They are ambush predators, relying on their camouflage to remain undetected until they strike.
- Reproduction – These vipers, like most/all in Southern Thailand, are ovoviviparous, meaning they give birth to live young. A female can give birth to a clutch of 5-15 neonates, which are independent from birth.
Interaction with Humans
- Caution and Respect – While mangrove pit vipers are not aggressive by nature, they will defend themselves if threatened. It’s important to be cautious when exploring mangrove areas and to respect the presence of these snakes. They are well hidden and can easily be missed.
- Medical Attention – In the event of a bite, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Antivenom specific to pit vipers is available in Thailand, and early treatment can prevent serious complications. Note – there is no reason any adult should die from a pit viper bite in Thailand with prompt medical care and precautions about antivenom and anaphylactic shock.
- Conservation Status – Mangrove pit vipers are not currently listed as endangered, but habitat destruction and environmental changes pose threats to their populations. Conservation efforts to protect mangrove ecosystems indirectly benefit these snakes.
Significance in Southern Thailand
Tourism and Education – For those interested in wildlife, Southern Thailand’s mangrove forests offer opportunities to observe these vipers in their natural habitat. Guided tours, like the ones you might offer during your night nature tours in Thailand’s rainforest, can educate visitors about the importance of these snakes and how to safely coexist with them.
Mangrove pit vipers are an integral part of Southern Thailand’s rich biodiversity. Understanding and respecting these remarkable reptiles can enhance our appreciation of the delicate balance within the mangrove ecosystems.
Other Snakes and Animals Found in the Krabi Mangroves
- 30+ species of birds!
- Water monitors cruising through the mangroves for fish, snakes, and other prey.
- Pythons
- Mangrove Cat Snakes (Boiga dendrophila)
- Green Cat Snakes
- Dog-toothed Cat Snakes
- Water Snakes
Book a Snake Tour through the Krabi Mangroves Now for up to 4 people (Special Price) >
[All mangrove pit viper images ©KrabiNature.com]
