(Cerastes cerastes) desert horned viper
Habitat: Found mainly in deserts where there are rock outcroppings & fine sand, often in very arid places; however, may be found near oases. Limited mainly to northern Africa & the Middle East.
Activity and Behavior: Mainly nocturnal & terrestrial (semi-fossorial). Can make itself almost invisible by wriggling down into loose sand. Often hides in rodent holes & under stones. When irritated, rubs inflated loops of body together to make a “rasping hiss.” Can strike quickly if disturbed.
Venom Characteristics: Venom primarily hemotoxic. Local symptoms include edema, redness, internal hemorrhage, & areas of gangrene. Venom has coagulant activities at low concentrations, anticoagulant activities at high concentrations. Fatalities rare but have been documented.
