How long would it take an average man to die from a puff adder bite?

Answer 1

The Puff Adder is the second largest of the dangerous vipers and averages between 4' to 6' (1.2 to 1.8c) in length. It is one of the most common venomous snakes in Africa and accounts for approximately 60% of all snake bites, and the majority of deaths. Even when a bite is not fatal, it usually leads to some degree of permanent impairment, disfigurement and disability.

The Puff Adder is found in a variety of habitats in Africa and is widely distributed. It is frequently found in close proximity to human settlements. Puff Adders can strike from any position and in all directions with great speed and force, even from what will appear to be a resting position, therefore, you have to be very careful to stay out of its strike range at all times. If it strikes and you are within its reach, you will have absolutely no time to react to avoid its bite. The incredible speed with which it strikes must be seen to be believed. It is known to sometimes strike and hold on to its victim, as well. The puff adder typically injects between 100 and 350mg of venom in a single strike. The lethal dose for a human is 100mg of its venom.

The Puff Adder is largely nocturnal, hunting at night and seeking shelter during the day's heat. When approached, It draws its head close to its coils, makes a loud hissing sound, and is quick to strike any intruder. Most bites to humans occur because the puff adder is commonly found near human habitation where it frequently basks on or near foot paths. When approached it may remain motionless, relying on its camouflage to avoid detection.

This species is responsible for more fatalities than any other African snake. This is due to a combination of factors, including its wide distribution, common occurrence, large size, potent venom that is produced in large amounts, long fangs that inject it deeply, their reliance on camouflage which makes these snakes reluctant to flee, their habit of basking by footpaths and sitting quietly when approached, and their willingness to bite. __________ Whilst rather informative that didn't actually give an answer, the answer would be, if injected with about 100 mg of Puff Adder venom death would occur after about 25 hours or more.