Russell's Viper
Daboia russelii
One of Asia's most medically significant vipers, known for its striking chain-like pattern and potent venom.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 1-1.5 m (3.3-5 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
Russell's viper is a heavy-bodied, highly venomous species found across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Southeast Asia. It is one of the "big four" snakes responsible for the majority of snakebite incidents in India, largely due to its abundance near human habitation and agricultural land.
It is a member of the true viper family and delivers a loud, distinctive hiss when disturbed, often described as sounding like a pressure cooker.
How to identify it
- Light brown to tan body with three rows of large, dark brown, chain-like oval blotches
- Blotches often outlined in black and white
- Heavy, stout body
- Triangular head distinct from the neck
- Vertically elliptical pupil
- Loud hissing when threatened
- Distinguished from pit vipers by lack of a heat-sensing pit
Habitat & range
Inhabits open grassland, scrubland, agricultural fields, and forest edges across India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and parts of Southeast Asia, often near human settlements.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, though also active by day in cooler weather, feeding on rodents, which draws it toward farmland. Known for a loud hiss and quick strike when threatened. Ovoviviparous, giving birth to large litters of live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is Russell's viper dangerous?
Yes, it is one of the most medically significant snakes in Asia and responsible for a large share of snakebite cases.
Why is it common near farmland?
It preys heavily on rodents, which are abundant in agricultural areas, drawing it toward human settlements.
How does it sound when threatened?
It produces a loud, sustained hiss often compared to a pressure cooker.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
Russell's Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Russell's Viper.
Russell's Viper identified by the community
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