North-east african carpet viper
A species of Saw-scaled vipers Scientific name : Echis pyramidum Genus : Saw-scaled vipers
North-east african carpet viper, A species of Saw-scaled vipers
Scientific name: Echis pyramidum
Genus: Saw-scaled vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Echis pyramidum is a species of venomous viper endemic to Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Three subspecies are currently recognized, including the nominate subspecies described here.
General Info
Lifespan
5-12 years
Diet
North-east african carpet viper is predominantly a carnivore, feeding primarily on small mammals and birds. It employs ambush tactics to capture prey, utilizing its venom to aid the process. Occasionally, the diet extends to include amphibians and reptiles when available.
Appearance
North-east african carpet viper is a small, snake species with a elongated, cylindrical body. It features diamond-shaped scales which are predominantly sandy or golden-brown in color, commonly decorated with dark blotches. Their skin is rough and characterized by pronounced keeling. The venomous snake's most notable features are the short, sharply pointed tail, and vertically elliptical pupils. There are no significant variations in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
North-east african carpet viper exhibits significant solitary and territorial behavior including aggressive posturing when threatened. Adapted for desert survival, it utilizes ambush feeding, remaining motionless and striking rapidly at small-scale prey. Nocturnal in nature, north-east african carpet viper reduces activity in high temperatures, exhibiting crepuscular tendencies.
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Saw-scaled vipers Species
North-east african carpet viper