Saw-Scaled Viper
Echis carinatus
A small but highly venomous viper found across the Middle East and South Asia, notable for producing a distinctive rasping sound by rubbing its scales together and responsible for a large number of snakebite incidents in its range.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.8 m (1-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Middle East, Central Asia, and the Indian subcontinent
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Saw-Scaled Viper is a small viper widespread across arid and semi-arid regions from the Middle East through Central Asia and into the Indian subcontinent. Despite its modest size, it is regarded as one of the most medically significant venomous snakes in the world due to its abundance near human settlements and potent venom.
It is well known for producing a distinctive rasping or sizzling warning sound by rubbing coils of specially keeled scales together, a unique defensive display among vipers.
How to identify it
- Small, stout body with strongly serrated, keeled scales along the sides
- Sandy, tan, or brownish coloration with pale zigzag or blotch patterning that provides camouflage
- Broad, somewhat triangular head distinct from the neck
- Vertical elliptical pupils
- Adults typically 0.3-0.8 m
- The saw-like rasping sound produced by rubbing body coils together is a distinctive identification cue
Habitat & range
Found in deserts, dry scrubland, and rocky or sandy terrain from the Middle East through Iran, Central Asia, and across much of the Indian subcontinent, often near cultivated land and human habitation.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, becoming more active after dusk. Feeds on rodents, lizards, and arthropods. When threatened, it produces a characteristic rasping sound by rubbing its serrated lateral scales together in a coiled posture. Reproduction is viviparous, with females giving birth to litters of several young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Saw-Scaled Viper dangerous?
Yes, it is regarded as one of the most medically significant venomous snakes in the world due to its abundance and potent venom.
Why is it called the Saw-Scaled Viper?
It produces a distinctive rasping sound by rubbing serrated, keeled scales along its sides together.
How big does the Saw-Scaled Viper get?
It is relatively small, typically 0.3-0.8 m (1-2.6 ft).
Where is the Saw-Scaled Viper found?
Across arid regions from the Middle East through Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
Saw-Scaled Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Saw-Scaled Viper.
Saw-Scaled Viper identified by the community
Real snakes identified with Snake Identifier.
