Which snake is famous for having the longest fangs of any snake?

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The Gaboon viper is famous for having the longest fangs of any snake.

Its hinged fangs can reach about 5 centimetres, allowing venom to be injected deeply into prey. The Gaboon viper is a large African viper with a broad head, a heavy body, and intricate brown, cream, and purple markings that camouflage it among leaf litter. It is also called the Gaboon adder.

Unlike the fast-moving image associated with some snakes, this viper often relies on camouflage and ambush. It can remain motionless while waiting for rodents or other suitable prey to pass nearby. Its venom is medically important, but bites are relatively uncommon because the snake is generally secretive and not eager to confront people.

The longest-fang claim concerns physical fang length, not overall snake length or venom toxicity. Fangs are periodically replaced as they wear out or break. The Gaboon viper’s large head and powerful venom-delivery system make it one of Africa’s most distinctive vipers.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Sept. 2026

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