Steppe viper
A species of Palaearctic vipers Scientific name : Vipera renardi Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Steppe viper, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Scientific name: Vipera renardi
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By alexander_fomichev , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Vipera renardi is a species of viper, a venomous snake in the family Viperidae. The species is endemic to Asia and Eastern Europe. Five subspecies are recognized.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Steppe viper is primarily insectivorous, consuming a variety of arthropods. Notably, it feeds on locusts, beetles, and orthopteran insects. It ambushes its prey with a quick, precise strike.
Appearance
Steppe viper is a medium-sized venomous snake featuring a sturdy body with keeled scales. Its coloration is mainly greyish-brown, sometimes exhibiting a zigzag pattern down its back, although these markings can vary. Its eyes are small yet striking with vertically slit pupils. Females are typically more robust and longer than males. Notably, juvenile steppe viper are usually lighter in color than adults.
Behavior
Steppe viper exhibits solitary and predominantly ambushing behavior, lying in wait to attack prey. With its venomous bite as the primary attack mechanism, this behavior aids in hunting and survival. Steppe viper is often seen basking in sunlight, necessary for thermoregulation. Although non-migratory, it shows territoriality, primarily using pheromone signals for markings. It can display defensive bites if threatened, demonstrating aggressive territorial behavior.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Steppe viper 
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