Field's Horned Viper

Field's Horned Viper is a small desert viper found across arid regions of the Middle East, including Jordan, Israel, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It belongs to the horned viper genus Pseudocerastes, characterized by hornlike scale projections above the eyes.

It is a venomous species adapted to a life of ambush hunting in loose sand, and while capable of a medically relevant bite, encounters with humans are relatively uncommon due to its remote desert habitat and secretive habits.

• Small, stout body with strongly keeled scales
• Pale sandy, tan, or grayish coloration providing camouflage against desert sand
• Distinctive hornlike scale projection above each eye
• Broad, triangular head distinct from the neck
• Vertical elliptical pupils
• Adults typically 0.5-0.8 m

Inhabits sandy and gravelly deserts, often burying itself partially in loose sand to ambush prey. Found across Jordan, Israel, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and adjoining desert regions of the Middle East.

Primarily nocturnal, remaining buried or hidden during the heat of the day. Feeds on small rodents, birds, and lizards using an ambush strategy from a partially buried position. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of eggs.