A genus of venomous African vipers that includes the puff adder and other dangerous snakes with thick bodies and highly toxic venom.
Possibly from Latin 'bitis' or a Latinized form of indigenous African names for venomous snakes. The scientific genus name was established in the 18th century by naturalists cataloging African reptiles.
Bitis vipers have an unusual hunting strategy—they don't chase prey but wait perfectly still for hours, relying on their excellent camouflage; some species can inject more venom in one bite than any other snake in Africa.
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