History of Our Journey: The Albino West African Gaboon Viper

The Early Days: A Passion Ignited

First Encounters

Our foray into the realm of venomous reptiles began with a captivating encounter with a 1.5-meter long Gaboon viper, a creature of both beauty and power.

This first encounter, prompted by a friend’s decision to sell, sparked an unexpected yet profound interest in venomous snakes, marking the beginning of an extraordinary journey into the world of reptiles.

A Dream Conceived

My long-standing fascination with reptiles took a new turn with the Gaboon viper, inspiring a dream to breed an Albino Gaboon viper.

This dream, a blend of respect for these creatures and curiosity about their genetics, simmered for about eight years.

It was more than just a goal; it was a vision that laid the groundwork for a journey of dedication, culminating in one of our most significant achievements in reptile history.

The Turning Point: A Historic Discovery

Moment of Triumph

On March 9, 2017, we experienced a groundbreaking moment in our reptile breeding journey. Amidst the birth of several normal Gaboon vipers, we discovered the first albino Gaboon viper, marking a historic achievement in herpetology.

This discovery, a blend of shock and joy, represented the culmination of years of dedication and a dream long-held.

Critical Decisions

During the birthing process, we faced several critical challenges. The labor was unusually slow, raising concerns for the health of both the mother and the newborns.

We made the tough decision to involve reptile veterinary experts, standing by to intervene if necessary.

The Operation: A Race Against Time

The Lifesaving Procedure

An X-ray revealed she was still full of babies, leading to a critical decision: an emergency operation. The procedure was intense and emotional, with the first few babies, including the albino, initially lifeless.

Thanks to the skill and quick action of the veterinary team at Tygerberg Animal Hospital Bellville, led by Dr. Smith, several babies were revived, marking a significant triumph in the midst of a tense situation.

Revival and Relief

The operation was a mix of high tension and miraculous moments, especially when performing CPR on the newborns. Reviving these fragile creatures, particularly the albino male, was a testament to the dedication and expertise of everyone involved.

The entire operation, including reviving the mother, spanned over 5 hours, encapsulating a journey of hope, struggle, and eventual success.

Post-Birth Care and Future Goals

Ensuring Safety and Health

Post-operation, we took extensive measures to ensure the safety and health of the newborns. This included isolating them from other reptiles to prevent disease risks and protect them from potential threats. The meticulous care post-birth highlights our commitment to the well-being and longevity of these unique vipers.

A Vision Realized and Expanded

This milestone in breeding the albino Gaboon viper aligns seamlessly with our broader goals of reptile education and conservation. It’s not just an individual achievement but a step forward in our ongoing mission to promote understanding and respect for these incredible creatures. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our work, sharing knowledge, and expanding our efforts in reptile conservation.