Persian Horned Viper
Pseudocerastes persicus
A desert viper of the Middle East with prominent hornlike scales above the eyes, occupying rocky and sandy terrain.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 60-90 cm (24-35 in)
- Range
- Iran, Iraq, and surrounding parts of the Middle East and Central Asia
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Overview
The Persian Horned Viper is a moderately sized desert-dwelling viper found across Iran, Iraq, and neighboring regions. It is notable for the pointed, horn-like scale projecting above each eye.
It is closely related to the Spider-Tailed Viper, both belonging to the genus Pseudocerastes, though the Persian Horned Viper lacks the unusual tail lure of its relative.
How to identify it
- Medium-sized viper with sandy, grey, or pale brown coloration and darker blotches
- Prominent pointed horn-like scale above each eye
- Broad triangular head with vertical pupils
- Rough keeled body scales
- Distinguished from the Spider-Tailed Viper by lacking the bulbous, spider-mimicking tail tip
Habitat & range
Rocky deserts, arid hillsides, and semi-desert plains across Iran, Iraq, and surrounding parts of the Middle East and Central Asia.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, sheltering in rock crevices or burrows during the day. Ambush predator feeding on rodents, lizards, and birds. Oviparous, laying eggs rather than giving live birth.
Frequently asked questions
What is the horn above its eyes for?
It likely aids camouflage among rocky terrain, though its exact function is not fully confirmed.
Is it related to the Spider-Tailed Viper?
Yes, both belong to the genus Pseudocerastes, though the Persian Horned Viper lacks the spider-mimicking tail tip.
Where does it live?
Rocky and sandy deserts across Iran, Iraq, and nearby regions of the Middle East and Central Asia.
What does it eat?
Rodents, lizards, and occasionally birds.
Persian Horned Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Persian Horned Viper.
