Trimeresurus albolabris

Arboreal: vertical (tall) terrarium, densely planted, with numerous horizontal branches at different levels.

Minimum for an adult; favour taller (90 cm+) to encourage climbing and ambushing. SECURITY IS IMPERATIVE (VENOMOUS species): lockable terrarium, fully escape-proof (seals, fine mesh vents), danger signage, remote-access protocol (hook, long tongs, hatch). In France and the EU, keeping a venomous snake requires specific authorizations (certificate of competence + establishment opening permit) — comply with local regulations.

High humidity but with VERY good ventilation to avoid stagnant air and respiratory infections. Daily misting (morning/evening); let the décor dry partially between two mistings.

Substrate that retains moisture without being waterlogged; add moss and dead leaves for a humid microclimate. A planted bioactive setup helps stabilize humidity and hygiene.

Not essential (nocturnal species) but low-intensity UVB (Ferguson zone 1, UV index ~1-2) is beneficial to calcium and vitamin D3 metabolism. Photoperiod ~12 h, subdued. Provide dense shaded areas.

A large container of clean water available at all times, renewed regularly. The animal drinks mainly the droplets deposited by misting on the foliage and branches; daily spraying is therefore essential to its hydration.

Southeast Asia: southern China, Vietnam, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar, northeastern India and Indonesia. Occupies humid forests, forest edges, bamboo groves and agricultural areas near water.

Carnivore (vertebrate eater) — Rodents, birds, frogs and lizards (juveniles often oriented toward amphibians/lizards)

Ambush predator. Feed thawed/dead prey of suitable size (≈ body width) with long tongs, every 7-14 days for an adult (less frequently for a non-breeding female to prevent obesity). NEVER feed by hand: the strike reflex is fast and the venom is medically significant.

Breeding is often triggered by a slight thermal/photoperiodic drop and a simulated rainy season. Gestation of about 5-6 months; the neonates (~15-20 cm) are fully venomous and defensive from birth — the same precautions as for adults.

• Respiratory infections (insufficient ventilation / stagnant air, poorly managed humidity)
• Dysecdysis (incomplete sheds) linked to too-low humidity
• Stomatitis / 'mouth rot' (often secondary to stress or oral trauma against the walls)
• Internal and external parasitism (very common in wild-caught animals, the majority of the trade)
• Dehydration and food refusal due to acclimation stress