In the lush rainforest of Costa Rica at La Fortuna – San Carlos, a slender-bodied viper with a prehensile tail slithered quietly through the undergrowth. Its broad triangular head held two prominent horns above its mesmerizing eyes, giving it a fierce and mysterious appearance. This viper’s coloration is golden yellow reason why its name is Oropel wich in indigeneus language means “Fake Gold”
This elusive arboreal viper was known as the Central American Horned Viper, a species that was endemic to the region. With a total length reaching up to 85 cm, it was a formidable predator in its habitat. Despite its small size, the viper was a master of stealth and camouflage, making it a challenge for prey to detect its presence until it was too late.
The Eyelash Palm Pit-viper could be found from the isthmus of Tehuantepec in Mexico all the way south to Costa Rica, Panama, and even small parts of Colombia. It made its home in the lowland and montane wet forests, as well as cloud forests and plantations. The dense foliage provided ample hiding spots for the viper to wait patiently for its next meal to pass by. Doing Hiking with Acutus Travel here at La Fortuna its the answer if you are looking for something to do during your vacations in Costa Rica, enjoy and learn about the rainforest while you look for the beautiful Oropel – Eyelash Palm Pit-viper.
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