Venomous Snakes of Liberia and West Africa  Name & Pictures
Description Western Bush Viper  Common Name: Western Bush Viper,
West African Bush Viper; Green Bush Viper  Scientific Name:
Atheris chlorerchis - Atheris chlorechis is found in the forests
of West Africa from Guinea east to Gabon.   This slender bush
viper is relatively large. Adults are often 45-60 cm (18-24
inches). Some specimens may reach 70 cm (28 inches). The keeled
body scales are smaller than other members of the genus giving
it a smoother appearance.  Its tail is long and strongly
prehensile with a yellow tip. Not nearly as variable as other
species, western bush vipers are light green with a pale green
or bluish venter and pale yellowish  Western Bush Viper
Continues...  paired dorsal spots. The 6-7 1/2 inch (15-19 cm)
babies may be tan or light brown and change to yellowish green
with dark green markings within 24 hours (Freed, 1986, Spawls &
Branch, 1995). Others have reported neonates being solid yellow
with light tan markings down the