Yellow-blotched Palm Pit Viper

A small to medium-sized pit viper typically measuring 16–24 inches (41–61 cm) in total length. Body is slender with a distinctly compressed, prehensile tail adapted for arboreal life. Head is triangular and moderately flattened, set off from the neck, with a slightly upturned snout. Dorsal coloration is typically bright green to yellow-green, with distinctive bright yellow to golden-yellow blotches, bands, or reticulations covering much of the dorsal and lateral surfaces, giving the species its common name. Some individuals may display more uniform coloration with subtle patterning. The temporal region behind the eye is often marked with yellow or gold coloration. Scales are keeled, contributing to a somewhat rough texture. Vertical pupils and prominent loreal pits are present, characteristic of pit vipers. Ventral surface is yellowish-green to pale yellow, often unmarked or with sparse dark flecking. Sexually dimorphic, with females typically larger than males. Juveniles resemble adults but may have less pronounced yellow markings. Inhabits humid montane forests, cloud forests, and tropical rainforests at elevations typically between 4,000–10,000 feet (1,219–3,048 m), where it is strictly arboreal, remaining coiled on vegetation, branches, and vines. Primarily nocturnal and ambush predators. Diet consists of small vertebrates including lizards, small frogs, and occasionally small birds and small mammals, subdued via envenomation.