Bothriechis torvus Perched on Bromeliad 照片檔

High in the rainforest understory, this Bothriechis torvus rests atop a bromeliad—a hunting ground rich with potential amphibian prey. This species, part of the eyelash palm pitviper group, was only described in 2023 and is found exclusively in Panama’s Darién region. The eyelash-like scales above its eyes break up the outline of its head, offering both camouflage and protection from overhead light. The bromeliad it rests on may also host small frogs and invertebrates, key components of this snake’s diet. As with many rainforest endemics, B. torvus faces significant conservation challenges in the form of habitat loss, and its recent discovery underscores how much biodiversity remains hidden—and vulnerable—in Panama’s rainforests.