SAW-SCALED VIPER
Echis carinatus
DESCRIPTION
The Saw-Scaled Viper (Echis carinatus) is a small to medium-sized venomous snake known for its distinctive saw-like scales along its body. It is highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats across its range.
FUN FACTS
- Saw-Scaled Vipers are responsible for a significant number of snakebite incidents in their range | They are known for their unique defensive posture, coiling and hissing when threatened | Their venom is hemotoxic, affecting blood and tissue
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight0.5-1 kg
Average Length0.6-1 m
Diet TypeCarnivore
Social Structuresolitary, typically found alone except during mating season
Activity PatternNocturnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- Saw-Scaled Vipers inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, often found in rocky areas, grasslands, and scrublands. They are also known to thrive in agricultural fields.
- Biomes
- Desert, Grassland, Savanna
- Native Range
- The species is native to parts of North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia.
- Continent
- Africa, Asia
- Countries
- Egypt, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, Iran
- Diet
- This species primarily feeds on small mammals, lizards, and insects. It uses its venom to immobilize prey before consumption.
- Diet Type
- Carnivore
- Favorite Food
- small mammals, lizards, insects
- Social Structure
- solitary, typically found alone except during mating season
- Activity Pattern
- Nocturnal
- Group Size
- 1
- Territorial
- 0
VU
0.5-1 kg
Weight
0.6-1 m
Length
- Coloration
- The coloration varies but typically includes shades of brown, gray, or tan with darker markings.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- males are generally smaller than females
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 3-20
- Sexual Maturity
- 2-3 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but local declines may occur due to habitat destruction.
- Wild Population Estimate
- unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Main threats include habitat loss due to agriculture and urbanization. Additionally, they are often killed due to fear of their venomous bite.
- Predators
- birds of prey, larger snakes
- Defense Mechanisms
- They can produce a loud hissing sound by rubbing their scales together, which can deter potential threats.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon