Urutu is a species of venomous snake endemic to Brazil, Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina. Females are noticeably longer and heavier than males. This species is terrestrial. No subspecies have been found so far.
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Subphylum: Vertebrata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Squamata
- Suborder: Serpentes
- Family: Viperidae
- Subfamily: Crotalinae
- Genus: Bothrops
- Scientific Name: Bothrops alternatus
Other name
Wutu, Crossed Pit Viper, Yarará Grande
Size
Urutu pit viper is reported to be over 2 meters (6.6 feet) in total length. It is large and stout and emales significantly longer and heavier than males.
Coloration
The color pattern is very variable. The base color is brown, tan or gray, with occasional gray. There are a series of diagonal and longitudinal white to brown markings.
Distribution
Urutu is found in southeastern Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and northern Argentina.
Habitat
This pit viper prefers swamps, low-lying marshes, riparian zones, and other wet habitats. It is also common on sugar cane plantations.
Reproduction
This pit viper is viviparous and can give birth to varying numbers of live young. Juveniles are the same as adults, except that they are more brightly colored.
Venom
Bites of urutu are rarely fatal, but often cause severe local tissue damage.
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