Reptile · Venomous snake
Gaboon viper care guide
Bitis gabonica
The gaboon viper is a expert-level venomous snake from Central and E Africa. Adults reach 120–180 cm and live 15–20 years in captivity. Its calm nature lulls keepers; one bite can be fatal without fast antivenom.
- Enclosure 150 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a gaboon viper cost in Canada?
Gaboon viper quick facts
- Skill level
- Expert
- Adult size
- 120–180 cm
- Lifespan
- 15–20 years
- Activity
- Nocturnal
- Native range
- Central and E Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 143 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats
- Bioactive style
- Humid terrestrial
Gaboon viper enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (59 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a humid terrestrial bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix12 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls3 cm
Deep, moist soil is what holds humidity in this build – much better than thin bedding, especially through Canadian winters.
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
Some Canadian provinces and many municipalities restrict or ban this species. Check your local bylaws and any provincial permit rules before buying.
What does a gaboon viper eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 14–21 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Placid but has the longest fangs of any snake; tools only.
Health watch: Watch for obesity and respiratory infections.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check warm and cool side temperatures and humidity.
- Refresh the water bowl.
Weekly
- Mist or pour water into the substrate to keep the lower layers moist.
- Spot-clean large waste promptly.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter.
- Stir and fluff compacted topsoil around hides.
- Check heat sources and thermostat calibration.
Yearly
- Partially refresh soil in high-traffic areas.
- Replace UVB bulbs (if used).
Recommended for a gaboon viper bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (150 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 3 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 12 cm
Cypress Substrate
Optional top layer (cypress)
Red Oak Leaves 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Cork Bark Tubes
Secure hides at both ends of the gradient
Malaysian Drift Wood
Sturdy enrichment for heavy-bodied animals
Gaboon viper FAQ
Is the gaboon viper good for beginners?
No – the gaboon viper is a specialist animal for expert keepers only. Placid but has the longest fangs of any snake; tools only.
What size enclosure does a gaboon viper need?
At least 150 × 60 × 60 cm (about 59 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 143 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a gaboon viper cost in Canada?
Typically $600–1500 CAD to buy, about $1150–2000 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $400–700 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a gaboon viper need?
Temperature: Warm 28–30°C, cool 24°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a gaboon viper eat?
Carnivore – frozen/thawed rats. Feed one appropriately sized thawed rat every 14–21 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.