The Golden Eyelash Viper (oropel morph) is a venomous arboreal snake famous for its bright yellow coloration and eyelash-like scales. Rare and visually striking, it is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic rainforest reptiles.
RangeGeographically, the Golden Eyelash Viper occurs from southern Mexico through Central America, including Costa Rica, and into northwestern South America (Colombia and Ecuador).Locally in Costa Rica, the oropel morph is found in humid lowland and mid-elevation forests, especially on the Caribbean slope and in well-preserved forest habitats.
🌙 Behavior
A classic ambush predator, remaining motionless for long periods before delivering a fast, precise strike. Active mostly at night (nocturnal). Feeds on birds, frogs, lizards, and small mammals. Shy and non-aggressive, but will strike if provoked or stepped on.
ReproductionOvoviviparous (gives birth to live young). Female carries fertilized eggs internally. Litter size: 2–16 neonates. Newborns are venomous from birth
⚠️ Venom:
Although venomous, this snake is calm and avoids confrontation. Accidental encounters are rare and usually occur when the animal is disturbed.
Specification 🐍Latin name: Bothriechis schlegelii
Family: Viperidae
Size: 50–80 cm
Weight: 600g
Lifespan: 10-15 years
🎁 Fun Fact:
The oropel morph is one of the most photographed snakes in Costa Rica due to its vivid golden color. Despite its bright appearance, it is extremely hard to spot in the wild. The “eyelashes” help break up the snake’s outline, enhancing camouflage.
⚠️Advice: 🌿 When walking in the rainforest at night, never grab branches with bare hands, especially at chest or face level. These snakes don’t hiss or flee — they rely entirely on camouflage. You might be inches away without noticing.
✍️Safety Tips:
- Never approach or handle.
- Watch where you walk in dense vegetation.
- Wear boots on forest trails.