Echis coloratus terraesanctae
A species of Saw-scaled vipers Scientific name : Echis coloratus terraesanctae Genus : Saw-scaled vipers
Echis coloratus terraesanctae, A species of Saw-scaled vipers
Scientific name: Echis coloratus terraesanctae
Genus: Saw-scaled vipers
Content
Description General Info
Description
With an ecological niche in the arid regions of the Middle East, echis coloratus terraesanctae exhibits distinct characteristics in terms of reproduction and survival. Echis coloratus terraesanctae harnesses 'live-bearing' where offspring are birthed alive, unlike most snakes who lay eggs, an adaptation to their dry habitat. Additionally, echis coloratus terraesanctae employs a unique 'sidewinding' locomotion, enabling efficient movement across loose, sandy terrain, critical to their survival in hostile environments.
General Info
Lifespan
5-12 years
Diet
Echis coloratus terraesanctae subsists primarily on a diet of small mammals and birds. It exercises a stealthy hunting technique to ambush its prey, subscribing to a carnivorous diet in order to meet its nutritional requirements.
Appearance
Echis coloratus terraesanctae is a small, slender snake with a characteristic V-shaped scale pattern. Its skin is noticeably rough due to its keeled, or ridged, scales. It displays a distinctive coloration of reddish-brown or copper hues, with paler crossbands. The snake's tail tapers off to a fine point. There are no marked differences in appearance between genders, developmental stages, or subspecies.
Behavior
Echis coloratus terraesanctae is characterized by its solitary, nocturnal behavior. It is primarily terrestrial, exhibiting a distinctive sidewinding locomotion in its arid habitat. It displays defensive behavior when threatened, such as hissing and inflating its body, presenting a threat display involving an s-shaped neck. It's known for its ambush predation method, where it camouflages in the sand and attacks unsuspecting prey.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Saw-scaled vipers Species
Echis coloratus terraesanctae