The Fer-de-Lance Snake of Belize: A Complete Guide 🐍

Living in the jungles of Belize means sharing your space with some of the most fascinating—and sometimes dangerous—wildlife. Among them is the Fer-de-Lance snake (Bothrops asper), also known locally as Yellow-jaw Tommygoff, or the barba amarilla. This venomous pit viper is both feared and respected throughout Central America. Whether you’re moving to Belize, visiting, or simply curious, this guide covers everything you need to know about the Fer-de-Lance. Topics include identification, habitat, safety tips, and first aid recommendations.

Disclosure: In the case of a snake bite, I am not a medical practitioner; this is simply a guide. Seek medical advice and care at a hospital or medical clinic immediately if ever bitten by a Fer-de-Lance snake.

  What Is the Fer-de-Lance?

The Fer-de-Lance (Bothrops asper) is one of the most dangerous snakes in Belize and across Central America. Its name comes from French, meaning “spearhead,” which reflects its triangular head shape. Locally, many Belizeans call it yellow-jaw or barba amarilla because of the yellowish colour around its mouth.

In the Mayan language, they are called Ik’bolay. They have also been referred to as Taxin’can or Taxincan, which is another word for barba amarilla.

Adult Fer-de-Lance snake. Thanks to Alvaro Tecún for the picture.

 Key facts about the Fer-de-Lance in Belize:

• Scientific name: Bothrops asper
• Type: Pit viper (venomous)
• Average size: 1.2–2.5 metres (4–8 feet)
• Front fangs: measuring up to 2cm
• Venom: Hemotoxic (affecting blood and tissue)
• Distribution: countrywide
• Behaviour: Generally nocturnal, highly defensive when threatened
• Viviparous: Giving birth to live young – 20 to 70, average 40. This species is considered to be the most prolific of all snakes in the Americas.
• Prey: Adults eat small mammals and rodents. Young eat lizards, frogs, and various invertebrates
• In recent decades, herpetologists have preferred the name ‘terciopelo’ for Bothrops asper, although the term fer-de-lance is still common in popular usage.
• Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bothrops_asper

In my yard

 My Personal Encounters with Fer-de-Lance Snakes

I rarely come across adults on my farm. When I do spot one, it’s usually already slithering away into the deep bush, too quickly for me to photograph. The babies, however, are a different story—they turn up fairly regularly. In fact, I’d go so far as to say they are probably the most common snake on my property. I’ve even found a few hiding underneath my house.

When I think about the work I do around the farm – collecting coconuts from tall grass or chopping around seedling trees – I’m shocked that I haven’t been bitten multiple times. It’s a stark reminder of how careful you have to be living in the jungle.

But here’s the truth: Fer-de-Lance snakes are just part of the deal. And I can’t lie—I get excited when I find one. I love it. It’s moments like these that make living in the Belize jungle feel alive.

In my yard.

 How to Identify a Fer-de-Lance

Correct identification is essential, as Belize has several harmless snakes that are often mistaken for venomous ones.

Identification features:

• A broad, spear-shaped head that’s wider than the neck.
• Body colour: Brown or olive with darker diamond or hourglass patterns. There can be a lot of color variation between individuals.
• A yellowish jawline (hence the local name yellow-jaw).
• Belly: Pale yellow to cream-coloured
• Vertical pupils—like a cat’s eyes.
• Behaviour: Coils and vibrates its tail when threatened
• Juveniles look the same but have a bright yellow tail tip, which they wiggle to lure prey.

⚠️ Important: Juvenile Fer-de-Lance snakes are especially dangerous because they often inject more venom during a defensive bite.

 Habitat and Range in Belize

The Fer-de-Lance is highly adaptable and thrives in diverse environments.

• Found in lowland tropical forests, savanna, and among mangroves.
• Common in disturbed areas (secondary growth) and around farms and plantations, attracted to rodents associated with humans.
• Prefers moist environments such as riverbanks and farmland.
• Because they are nocturnal, they are most active at night, especially after rainfall.
• Juveniles can sometimes be found up to 2 metres (6.5 feet) off the ground.
• Common countrywide.

In my yard

 Why They’re So Feared

It’s not just the venom that makes the Fer-de-Lance infamous. It’s the combination of traits:

• Potent venom that destroys tissue and affects blood clotting.
• Defensive behaviour—they will stand their ground and strike if threatened.
• Common presence near farmland and homes.
• Well camouflaged, unprecedented agility, and speed

Most Belizeans I’ve met don’t waste time debating—they deal with snakes quickly, often killing any that cross their path. The Fer-de-Lance is so feared here that even other, less dangerous snakes rarely escape the same fate.

Despite this fearsome reputation, the Fer-de-Lance usually only strikes when it’s accidentally stepped on or feels cornered.

In my yard

 Common Mistakes Tourists Make

Visiting the Belize jungle is an amazing experience, but it comes with some hidden dangers—Fer-de-Lance snakes being one of the most serious. From my experience, most bites happen because of a few predictable mistakes:

1. Looking too far ahead while walking: The jungle floor is full of leaves, vines, and hidden creatures. Focusing only on the trail ahead means you might step on a snake right in front of you.
2. Wearing the wrong footwear: Flip-flops or sandals leave feet exposed. Boots or closed shoes dramatically reduce risk. I never walk anywhere on my farm without rainboots.
3. Ignoring tall grass or leaf litter: Snakes love to hide in shaded, covered areas. Walking carelessly through these spots is asking for trouble.
4. Reaching into holes or under debris: Fer-de-Lance babies sometimes hide under rocks, logs, or even structures like porches. Always check before grabbing or leaning on something.
5. Trying to handle or move snakes: In Belize, never handle or touch a snake that hasn’t been properly identified.

 What To Do If You Encounter One

If you see a Fer-de-Lance in Belize:

1. Stay calm – sudden movements may provoke it.
2. Keep your distance – at least 3 metres (10 feet).
3. Do not attempt to kill it – many bites occur during attempted capture or killing.
4. Give it space to retreat – most snakes prefer to avoid confrontation.

Adult Fer-de-Lance snake. Thanks to Rowland Griffin for the picture.

 Fer-de-Lance Bite: First Aid and Treatment

First, most importantly, the vast majority of snake bites involve agricultural workers and residents, who regularly work in snake habitats.

• WHO Snakebite Envenoming page: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/snakebite-envenoming

What is a dry bite?

A dry bite is when a venomous snake bites a person (or animal) but does not inject any venom. Not every Fer-de-Lance bite injects venom. These “dry bites” usually happen when the snake is defending itself rather than hunting. It might strike to scare you away, but hold back venom to save it for prey. Even though no venom is injected, the bite can still hurt and break the skin, so it’s always important to seek medical attention after any Fer-de-Lance bite.

What to do if bitten by a Fer-de-Lance:

⚠️ Critical: Once bitten, the patient will likely experience severe pain and shock. Deaths from Fer-de-Lance bites are rare because tissue damage (necrosis) develops gradually and is usually treatable. Fatalities that do occur are most often the result of shock, panic, or cardiac arrest shortly after the bite. For this reason, it’s critical to lay the patient down and keep them calm. Many bites are “dry” or only partially envenomated, as the snake prefers to avoid wasting venom on something it can’t eat.

⚠️ Critical: Begin transport to a medical facility immediately. If possible, carry the patient rather than letting them walk. Apply firm pressure to the bite site right away. Take the patient to any medical facility; the staff there will determine whether transfer is needed. The clinic does not have to have antivenom on hand—there is usually enough time to arrange transport to another location in Belize before necrosis sets in.

⚠️ Critical: It’s important to note that there is no bush doctor, medicine man, or witch doctor in Belize who has a true cure for snakebite. If someone survives, they may claim it was thanks to their herbs, smoke, or rituals—but in reality, it was most likely a dry bite or a mild envenomation. If the patient dies, the explanation will simply be that help arrived too late. The truth is straightforward: the best and only effective response is to get the patient to a medical facility as quickly as possible.

Do Not Catch the Snake

There is also no need to catch the snake and bring it to the hospital for identification. Belize has only nine medically significant snakes, and eight of them are effectively treated with the polyvalent antivenom that is already available in the country.

Bullet Point Instructions

• Call for help immediately – reach the nearest hospital —this is the most critical step
• Keep the victim still – minimize movement, movement spreads venom faster.
• Remove any constricting items – such as rings, watches, tight clothing from the affected limb
• Keep the bite site at or below heart level.
• Transportation – If transportation of the patient takes hours or longer, have the patient lie on their side to maintain a clear airway and reduce the risk of inhaling any vomitus into the lungs
• If possible, take a photo of the snake for identification (from a safe distance)
• Antivenom is the only specific antidote to snake venom.
• Neurotoxic venom from coral snakes stops the muscles that keep you breathing, and so the effects are far more serious, requiring artificial respiration soon after the bite.

What NOT to do if bitten by a fer-de-lance:

• Do not cut the wound or attempt to suck out the venom
• Do not apply ice or heat to the bite area
• Do not apply a tourniquet, which can cause more harm
• Do not give the victim alcohol or medications that thin blood

Treatment in Belize:

• Hospitals and clinics stock or can access antivenom for Fer-de-Lance bites.
• Timely treatment is crucial for survival and recovery.

Fer-de-Lance Snake Bite Symptoms:

• Early symptoms: severe local pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fainting. Swelling and bruising spread rapidly up the bitten limb
• Within 12-24 hours: blisters, local abscess formation, and necrosis
• Signs of severe systemic envenoming include shock (low blood pressure with impaired circulation), spontaneous bleeding from the gums, nose, lungs, stomach, and bowels, and blood-stained urine. Problems with blood clotting are very common.
• Bleeding into the brain can cause death rapidly
• Diminished urine output suggests acute kidney failure.
• Up to 7% of cases of envenoming are fatal

Sources – A Guide to the Reptiles of Belize by Peter J Stafford & John R. Meyers

Adult Fer-de-Lance snake. Thanks to Alvaro Tecún for the picture.

 Practical Precautions to Avoid Snake Bites

• Stay on designated trails when hiking
• Wear closed, sturdy hiking boots and long pants
• Use a walking stick to probe vegetation ahead
• Carry a headlamp or flashlight for night walking
• Listen to your guide’s instructions in wildlife areas
• Watch where you place your hands and feet
• Shake out shoes and clothing before use
• Consider rainboots for off-trail hiking

 Risk Factors Contributing to Snake Bites

• Walking barefoot or with sandals in vegetation
• Reaching into hidden areas without looking
• Night hiking without proper lighting
• Moving logs or rocks without tools
• Ignoring warning signs from guides
• Attempting to handle or photograph snakes
• Exploring dense undergrowth alone

Adult Fer-de-Lance snake. Thanks to Rowland Griffin for the picture.

 FAQs About the Fer-de-Lance in Belize

Q: How common are Fer-de-Lance snakes in Belize?
A: Very common, especially around farmland areas.

Q: Can you survive a Fer-de-Lance bite?
A: Yes, most likely, with immediate medical treatment. Without it, survival chances drop significantly.

Q: Do they climb trees?
A: Yes—especially juveniles when hunting frogs or birds.

Q: Are all snakes in Belize dangerous?
A: Out of more than 50 snake species in Belize, only 8 are venomous.

Q: Should I kill one if I see it near my home?
A: Relocation is ideal, but many locals choose to kill them due to the risk. The safest approach is to avoid provoking it.

 The Fer-de-Lance in Mayan Folklore

Snakes hold a powerful place in Maya mythology and symbolism, and while the Fer-de-Lance itself isn’t always named directly, its traits—stealth, danger, and power—fit the stories passed down in Belize and neighbouring regions.

• Vision Serpent (Waxaklahun Ubah Kan):
  In Maya belief, the Vision Serpent was a sacred, supernatural snake connecting the human world with the spirit world. Leaders and shamans often sought visions through it in ceremonies. While not identical to the Fer-de-Lance, locals sometimes associate its earthly “cousins,” like the tommygoff, as physical reminders of that spiritual serpent.
• Symbol of Power and Rebirth:
  Because snakes shed their skin, the Maya saw them as symbols of renewal, transformation, and cycles of life. A sudden encounter with a Fer-de-Lance in the jungle might still be interpreted by some as a sign of change or a warning.
• Protector and Destroyer:
  Stories from the Maya and later Creole traditions sometimes describe venomous snakes as guardians of sacred caves, rivers, or ruins. These were places of great spiritual power, and the snake acted as both protector and test. To survive an encounter showed strength, but to act carelessly was seen as an insult to the spirits.

 Living in Belize with Fer-de-Lance Snakes

For those living in the jungle or farmland areas, prevention is key:

• Always wear rain boots around the farm.
• Clear tall grass and brush near your home.
• Store food properly to avoid attracting rodents (the snake’s main prey). My chicken coops attract a lot of rodents because of the corn.
• Use a headlamp or flashlight at night when walking outdoors.
• Educate yourself to be able to identify all snakes in your area.
• Educate visitors and children about snake safety.

In my yard.

 Medical Information on Snake Bites as it Pertains to Belize

This section is a work in progress, and I will update it as regularly as updated information comes my way. I did visit the KHMH in Belize City for information, that was until I saw the lineup for information. I will attempt another visit in the near future and attempt to keep an eye out for medical clinics on my travels. If you have any information that I can add here, please do reach out.

This section compiles reports and experiences from people living in Belize. Each bullet represents a separate individual’s account.

Source: Jerry R. Larder. (A special thank you for so much detail and help with explaining what to do when bitten by a Fer-de-Lance.)

• Most hospitals will keep a vial or two of antivenom. For an adult of my size and weight, it may take over 30 vials to completely reverse a fully envenomated bite.
• The government maintains a good stock of tri- or polyvalent antivenom in various stores around the country. These can be rushed anywhere in Belize in time to prevent necrosis caused by hemotoxic viper venom.
• The antivenom comes with one vial of saline and one vial of freeze-dried protein antivenom. It is rehydrated with saline before injection. Once rehydrated, it needs refrigeration; unreconstituted, it has a very long shelf life. Dogs have been saved with antivenom 10 years past the use-by date.
• Polyvalent antivenom effectively treats all Crotalidae snakes in Belize. It is not effective on coral snake or other Elapid bites, for which there is currently no antivenom in Belize.
• Antivenom should never be self-administered due to the risk of anaphylactic shock. Human antivenom is made from horse or goat blood, so allergic reactions are possible.
• Upon arrival, antivenom is usually injected near the bite site first. Once a cannula is inserted into a vein, additional doses are given intravenously. This is far more effective than subcutaneous or intramuscular injection, and the initial dose helps limit necrosis around the bite site.

Source: Facebook comment

• A person bitten in Mexico survived despite waiting nearly 24 hours before seeking treatment. Pain was severe, but timely medical intervention prevented further damage.

Source: Facebook comment on a Dangriga Hospital experience

• Dangriga Hospital has consistently had antivenom available. A friend bitten years ago was treated successfully with minimal complications.

Source: Armenia Village report

• One resident reported ten recent bites, including herself, her son, and her nephew. They all went to Western Regional Hospital, which always has antivenom in stock. Private hospitals charge much more, but treatment costs were under $100 for a week-long stay, including 10 vials of antivenom.
• Her description of the bite: First, the actual bite felt like a bad scorpion sting. Next, I got a terrible headache, and I was also clearly not myself. I was unusually lethargic and I would have never gotten help … My family had to take me to the hospital. I kept saying… no, no, I’m fine. Unbelievable if I think back … That was totally not me! And then this paralyzing feeling started crawling up my leg … It had reached my hip area when they started to give me antivenom. And it stopped there. Next, I got black/dark purplish spots over my belly and legs…as if someone hit me really good. And in the evening, I experienced difficulty in breathing…so I got oxygen.

In my yard.

 Conservation and Ecological Role

Although dangerous, the Fer-de-Lance plays an important role in Belize’s ecosystem.

• Controls populations of rats, mice, and other pests.
• Serves as prey for larger animals like hawks and eagles.
• Indicates a healthy jungle environment.

Killing them disrupts the ecological balance, so relocation or avoidance is a better solution when possible.

Belize Conservation: https://belizeaudubon.org/

 Final Thoughts

The Fer-de-Lance snake in Belize is a creature that demands respect. While it is responsible for more snakebites than any other species in the region, it is not a mindless aggressor—it strikes only when threatened or surprised. By understanding its habits, learning to identify it, and knowing how to react safely, you can live alongside this powerful reptile while appreciating its role in the Belizean jungle.

Adult Fer-de-Lance snake. Thanks to Rowland Griffin for the picture.

Check out some of my other creatures of Belize posts:

• 🐸Creatures That Find Their Way Into Homes in the Jungles of Belize🐍

• 🐸Belize’s Amphibians: An Essential Guide🐸

• Discover Boa Constrictor Snakes in Belize: A Complete Guide

• How to Scorpion-Proof Your House & Other Arachnids Found in Belize

• 🐸Creatures That Find Their Way Into Homes in the Jungles of Belize🐍

• Exploring Belize’s Black Howler Monkeys🐒

• The Most Dangerous Animals in the Belize Jungle: Fact or Fiction

Arie Hoogerbrugge is an adventure seeker who spent 2 years biking 26,000 km across Canada to his home in Belize from 2019 to 2021. Since 2021, he has been living at his home in the jungles of Belize, working hard and writing blogs.