Rare Mangshan Pit Vipers Thrive in Bronx Zoo’s Conservation Efforts
I grew up playing in the woods and discovering new crits was one of the most fun parts of my outdoor adventures so, naturally, when I caught wind of this reptile hatchling’s debut from the Wildlife Conservation Society, it made me smile for multiple reasons…I’m rambling, sorry. In the heart of the World of Reptiles at the Bronx Zoo, visitors were treated to a rare spectacle – One of the rare and endangered Mangshan pit vipers (Protobothrops mangshanensis) delicately coiling in its nursery…a hatchling! While encountering these venomous serpents in the wild is a rarity, the Bronx Zoo offers a unique opportunity to witness the beauty and significance of this newly hatched Mangshan pit viper.
Discovery in the Dense Forests of China
Originally unveiled to the world in 1990, the Mangshan pit viper is among the most elusive snake species globally, thriving solely within a dense, 115-square-mile expanse of mountains in southeastern China, specifically within the Hunan and Guangdong provinces. Named after the Mangshan Mountain in Mangshan National Forest Park, this vibrantly colored serpent boasts a venomous bite and a visually striking patchwork of green scales, aiding in its camouflage within the lush forest surroundings.
Rarity and Conservation Challenges
With an estimated wild population of merely 500, the Mangshan pit viper faces the threat of endangerment, earning its place on the IUCN Red List. Factors such as habitat loss, illegal pet trade, and other risks contribute to the decline in its numbers. While around 150 Mangshan pit vipers reside in zoos across the United States and Europe, the Bronx Zoo plays a crucial role in the conservation of this species.
Bronx Zoo’s Commitment to Conservation
Initiating a dedicated husbandry program in 2011, the Bronx Zoo has been at the forefront of Mangshan pit viper conservation efforts. This year, on August 7, marked a milestone as the zoo successfully hatched two of these vipers for the first time. This breeding achievement is vital for preserving genetic diversity and supporting the sustainability of the Mangshan pit viper.
Mangshan pit viper at Bronx Zoo – Photo Credit Julie Larsen: WCS
A Glimpse into the Nursery
Within the World of Reptiles nursery, visitors can marvel at one of the hatchlings, currently measuring about eight inches in length. As adults, these Mangshan pit vipers are expected to grow to just over 6 feet. Complementing the hatchling, an adult pair of Mangshan pit vipers is on display in the World of Reptiles, offering a comprehensive look into the Bronx Zoo’s successful breeding program, which currently comprises a total of 11 Mangshan pit vipers.
Unique Features and Behaviors
Notable for the heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils, these pit vipers use this extraordinary ability to accurately strike prey. Additionally, Mangshan pit vipers exhibit a distinctive caudal display, utilizing the light-colored tip of their tails to mimic a worm, attracting potential prey. Notably, this species stands out among pit vipers as one of the few that lay eggs, adding to its uniqueness in the serpent world.
To its credit, the Bronx Zoo’s commitment to the conservation of Mangshan pit vipers is not only a testament to their dedication but also a beacon of hope for the preservation of this rare and mesmerizing snake species.
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About the Author
Dr. Jerry Doby Editor-in-Chief of The Hype Magazine, Media and SEO Consultant, Journalist, Ph.D. and retired combat vet. 2023 recipient of The President's Lifetime Achievement Award. Partner at THM Media Group. Member of the U.S. Department of Arts and Culture, the United States Press Agency and ForbesBLK.
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