Nature Field Guide
Side-striped Palm Pitviper
- Spanish name
- Lora venenosa
- Scientific name
- Bothriechis lateralis
What Do Pico & Tati Think?
Pico: “What helps this reptile fit into its habitat?”
Tati: “Let’s look at its shape, colors and surroundings while giving it plenty of space.”
Species overview
About the Side-striped Palm Pitviper
Adult side-striped palm pitvipers are often emerald or blue-green, with a thin pale yellow or cream line along each side. Young snakes can be brown or reddish while still showing those side lines. This species is venomous.
It uses mountain forest, secondary growth and some coffee landscapes. Branches and foliage can conceal a resting animal near hand height. Observe only with a qualified guide from a distance, and never reach toward a snake for a better photograph. Green camouflage is a reason to look carefully, not to move closer.
Identification
Key Features of the Side-striped Palm Pitviper
Thin pale line along each side
Adults often green; juveniles may be brown
Climbing body with a gripping tail
Habitat & range
Mountain forests and wooded agricultural landscapes of Costa Rica, including Monteverde and the central and Talamanca ranges.
Local observations
Native species recorded in Costa Rica. Sightings depend on suitable habitat and locality.
When to observe
Observe on a suitable guided outing. Activity varies with weather, season and locality; do not disturb a resting or hidden animal.
Conservation & care
VENOMOUS. Observe only from a distance with a qualified guide. Keep children and pets well away. Never approach, touch, catch or provoke this snake, and do not reach into nearby vegetation.
Threats & pressures
Protect connected habitat and natural shelters. Avoid collection, unnecessary clearing and deliberate killing. Leave wildlife in place and support responsible observation.
Observation activity
Draw the side stripe on an outline and compare adult and juvenile colors using reliable reference illustrations.
Explore by location
Central Highlands · Central Valley · South Pacific · Alajuela · Cartago · Heredia · Limón · Puntarenas · San José · Monteverde