About Cerastes vipera (Linnaeus, 1758)
Adult Size
Adults of Cerastes vipera average 20–35 cm (8–14 in) in total length, which includes both the body and the tail, and reach a maximum total length of 50 cm (1.6 ft). Females of this species are larger than males.
Body and Head Morphology
This is a small, stout snake with a broad triangular head; its small eyes are positioned well forward, at the junction where the top and side of the head meet.
Hunting Strategy
Compared to other viperids, its hunting strategy is unique: it combines both sit-and-wait ambushing and active hunting. Active hunting is used mostly in the months just before hibernation, to increase energy intake ahead of the long dormant period.
Sand Burying Behavior
This species is known for burying itself in sand to stay cool, or to ambush prey.
Threat Response
When threatened, it coils into a distinctive C-shape; this makes its scales rub against each other, producing a rasping or crackling sound.
North African Distribution
In arid North Africa, it can be found in Mauritania, Morocco, Algeria, Mali, Tunisia, Libya, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and Egypt.
Sinai Peninsula Range
It occurs on the Sinai Peninsula in both Egyptian and Israeli territory.
Type Locality
The species' type locality is listed as "Ægypto", meaning Egypt.
