Fer-de-lance (Terciopelo)
Bothrops asper · Sarapiquí · Caribbean lowlands, Costa Rica
The most reliable place to see the fer-de-lance (terciopelo) in Costa Rica is humid lowland and foothill forest, including the Sarapiquí/Caribbean lowlands, best May–Nov. The terciopelo is an ambush predator that sits motionless and perfectly camouflaged, mostly at night — found on guided night walks where an experienced herper controls distance. No handling.
Photographing the fer-de-lance (terciopelo)
Photograph at a safe, guide-set distance with a 100–300mm and diffused flash; there’s no reason to get close to a venomous, medically significant snake.
Prime regions & timing
Verified sighting hotspots and the strongest months for the fer-de-lance (terciopelo).
Monthly sighting chance across the year · peak in June.
Trips to see the fer-de-lance (terciopelo)
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