Two-striped Forest Pitviper (Bothriopsis bilineata smaragdina), Loreto, Peru

The Two-striped Forest Pitviper (Bothriopsis bilineata smaragdina) is a nocturnal denizen of western Amazonia. The preferred habitat is both upland and flood forests, especially in vine tangles along stream borders. Primarily an understory inhabitant, this beautiful snake occasionally ascends to considerable heights. The diet includes frogs, lizards, and perhaps the occasional small bird or mammal. Known locally in Amazonian Peru as 'Loro Machaco,' it is much feared and talked about. However, in the lowland forests, most locals have never actually seen one and instead brand every green snake they see with this name.