Atheris hispida

Densely planted arboreal terrarium, taller than it is long, perfectly sealed and escape-proof (essential for a venomous species), with good cross-ventilation.

Provide plenty of horizontal/diagonal branches, dense foliage and elevated hiding spots. Most animals are wild-caught and difficult to acclimatise. A lock and a double safety barrier are essential.

High humidity maintained by misting, but with good ventilation to avoid stagnant air and respiratory infections.

Substrate kept humid but never waterlogged; most of the usable volume should be taken up by climbing supports and vegetation.

Low UVB (around 5%, 2-5 UVI) is optional but beneficial for this nocturnal species; shaded and refuge areas are essential. Avoid any lighting that produces heat.

Drinks mainly droplets from the foliage after spraying; also provide a small clean water dish. Mist regularly for hydration and shedding.

Central and East Africa: cool, humid montane forests of the DRC, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and Tanzania (often at altitude).

Carnivore — Pinkie mice / small rodents in captivity; amphibians, lizards and small mammals in the wild.

Infrequent feeding (roughly every 10-14 days). Prey (rodents) often has to be scented (frog/lizard) to trigger a feeding response. Always feed with tongs, from a distance.

Viviparous. Breeding is triggered by a seasonal cool cycle; gestation lasts several months. Neonates are already venomous and require the same cool, humid conditions.

• Respiratory infections (excessive heat, insufficient ventilation or stagnant air)
• Heat stroke / mortality from excessively high temperatures (>26-28°C)
• Feeding refusal and stress, especially in wild-caught individuals
• Internal parasites (nematodes, protozoa) common in wild specimens
• Dehydration and difficult sheds (dysecdysis) if humidity is insufficient