Eastern russel's viper
A species of Daboia Scientific name : Daboia siamensis Genus : Daboia
Eastern russel's viper, A species of Daboia
Scientific name: Daboia siamensis
Genus: Daboia
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Tontanthailand , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Daboia siamensis is a venomous viper species that is endemic to parts of Southeast Asia, southern China and Taiwan. It was formerly considered to be a subspecies of Daboia russelii (as Daboia russelli siamensis), but was elevated to species status in 2007.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Eastern russel's viper predominantly feeds on small mammals, especially rodents like rats. Although its diet is largely carnivorous, it occasionally consumes other reptiles for nutritional diversity.
Appearance
Eastern russel's viper is a moderately-sized venomous snake, with a stout and muscular build. It exhibits a unique skin pattern with shades of brownish-grey to dark blue, accompanied by crossbands of black or white. The scales are keeled, giving a rough texture. It has large nostrils and a conspicuous pair of fangs. No significant dissimilarities are observed between genders or due to age.
Behavior
Eastern russel's viper is predominantly nocturnal, often remaining hidden in foliage during the day before emerging to hunt at night. While generally solitary, this species displays strong territorial behavior, usually employing camouflage as a defensive mechanism. Unique to this species is its 'huffing' warning signal prior to attack, indicating its readiness to strike if threatened.
Population
Decreasing
Photo By Tontanthailand , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Daboia Species
Eastern russel's viper