The boomslang is the African snake known for its potent hemotoxic venom and exceptionally large eyes. Its scientific name is Dispholidus typus, and it is native to sub-Saharan Africa.
Boomslangs are slender, largely tree-dwelling snakes with excellent eyesight. Their eyes are unusually large, helping them detect prey and navigate an arboreal environment. Colour varies considerably: adult males are often green, while females may be brown, making the species more variable in appearance than many popular images suggest.
The boomslang is rear-fanged, with large grooved fangs positioned toward the back of the mouth. Its venom disrupts blood clotting and can cause dangerous internal and external bleeding. “Boomslang” comes from Dutch and Afrikaans words meaning “tree snake.” Despite its medical importance, the species is generally shy and avoids people.