I still count myself lucky that I didn’t hesitate for even a second longer. Had I stayed to examine it or acted out of curiosity, the consequences could have been fatal.

So, what exactly is a Gaboon viper?

The Gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica) is one of the deadliest snakes in Africa — and it holds the title of the heaviest venomous snake on Earth.

Its natural camouflage is nearly flawless, enabling it to disappear seamlessly among the leaves. You could be standing right beside it and never know — until it’s too late.

Here are some truly alarming details:

• Size: It can reach up to 2 meters in length
• Weight: It can weigh up to 8 kilograms
• Fangs: A shocking 5 centimeters long — the longest fangs of any snake
• Venom: Strong enough to cause tissue destruction and severe clotting
• Temperament: Generally calm and still unless provoked. But step on it or get too close, and it strikes with terrifying accuracy
• Diet: It preys on small mammals, birds, and can even swallow a hedgehog or small antelope whole

Despite its deadly potential, the Gaboon viper is rarely aggressive toward humans. Most bites occur by accident, but when they do, the outcome can be grim. Without immediate access to antivenom, survival is unlikely.

When I say that morning could have been my last, I’m not exaggerating. It was a real brush with death — and I’ll never forget how narrowly I escaped.