14 DAY TRIAL // A study published in the journal ZooKeys documents the discovery of a new pit-viper species. Sadly, these newly discovered reptiles are already critically endangered.
Sources are saying that this new species of pit-viper is currently inhabiting the cloud forest of Honduras. More precisely, it can be found in the Texiguat Wildlife Refuge.
The wildlife researchers who have had the chance to study these snakes explain that they are highly toxic.
It appears that this new snake species is fairly similar to other Honduran palm pit-vipers, hence the researchers' only figuring out that they were dealing with a previously undocumented species following their carrying out several genetic tests.
The species is now referred to as Bothriechis guifarroi.
“We recommend that B. guifarroi be immediately classified as Critically Endangered due to its limited known area of occurrence and the potential for anthropogenic damage to its habitat.”
“We also consider that this species warrants immediate consideration for protection under CITES, given its striking appearance and high potential for exploitation in the pet trade,” wildlife researchers are urging.