Cerastes cerastes cerastes
A species of Horned vipers Scientific name : Cerastes cerastes cerastes Genus : Horned vipers
Cerastes cerastes cerastes, A species of Horned vipers
Scientific name: Cerastes cerastes cerastes
Genus: Horned vipers
Content
Description General Info
Description
An intriguing feature of cerastes cerastes cerastes is its 'sidewinding' method of locomotion, a specialized adaptation to hot and sandy desert habitats, which minimizes contact with high-temperature surfaces. This behavior also contributes to its cryptic hunting technique, lying camouflaged and buried in sand, before swiftly ambushing prey such as small rodents and birds.
General Info
Lifespan
5-7 years
Diet
Cerastes cerastes cerastes is a primarily carnivorous species, with a noted preference for small rodents such as gerbils and jerboas. It occasionally preys on birds, lizards, and insects when the rodent population is low.
Appearance
Cerastes cerastes cerastes is a medium-sized viper with a slender body and rough, keeled scales. It displays a sandy or yellowish-brown color that helps it blend into its desert environment. The tail is tipped with a horn-like scale, while the head houses two distinctive, supraorbital 'horns'. There's no significant difference in appearance due to age or gender. This snake's unique morphology enables it to bury in sand, leaving only its eyes and horns visible.
Behavior
Cerastes cerastes cerastes is a nocturnal species which mainly adopts ambush hunting tactics, often burrowing into sand to partially conceal itself for capturing prey. This individualistic, terrestrial snake uses its tail for lure-based predation. It's seldomly aggressive but exhibits defensive displays when provoked, with hood expansion and hissing.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Horned vipers Species
Cerastes cerastes cerastes