VU

Hon Son Pit Viper

Trimeresurus honsonensis

Stable

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

Trimeresurus honsonensis faces significant pressure from habitat destruction as limestone karst forests in northern Vietnam are cleared for agriculture and development. The species' extremely limited range, restricted to a small area around Hon Son Island and adjacent mainland regions, makes it particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes. Mining activities and quarrying operations targeting limestone formations directly threaten the specialized cave and rocky outcrop habitats this viper depends upon.

Threat summary

Habitat

This pit viper inhabits limestone karst forests, rocky outcrops, and cave entrances in northern Vietnam's mountainous regions. The species shows a strong preference for areas with dense vegetation cover and limestone formations that provide both shelter and hunting opportunities.

Rocky areas· major

Conservation measures underway

Site/area protection

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Hon Son Pit Viper classified as Vulnerable?
Hon Son Pit Viper is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. Trimeresurus honsonensis faces significant pressure from habitat destruction as limestone karst forests in northern Vietnam are cleared for agriculture and development. The species' extremely limited range, restricted to a small area around Hon Son Island and adjacent mainland regions, makes it particularly vulnerable to local environmental changes. Mining activities and quarrying operations targeting limestone formations directly threaten the specialized cave and rocky outcrop habitats this viper depends upon.
Where does Hon Son Pit Viper live?
Hon Son Pit Viper occurs in Vietnam. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Hon Son Pit Viper?
The main threats to Hon Son Pit Viper are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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