Gaboon Viper - Gabon


The earliest inhabitants of Gabon were Pygmy people; Baka, Babongo, Bakoya, Barimba, and several others. They were replaced by Bantu people migrating into the area during the 14th century. Their numbers are in decline and it is estimated there only 7,000 to 20,000 Pygmies currently living in Gabon.

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Bitis gabonica rhinoceros - The Gaboon viper is the largest viper of the Bitis genus, a genus of venomous vipers indigenous to Africa and the southern portions of the Arabian Peninsula. The Gaboon viper has the distinction of having the heaviest venom yield of any poisonous snake and the longest fangs; 5 centimeters in length. Most vipers strike their prey and pull back to wait until the venom takes effect; the Gaboon viper uses its long fangs to keep hold of its prey until the victim is rendered motionless and ready to be swallowed.