Sochurek's Saw-Scaled Viper
Echis sochureki
A medically important desert viper closely related to the Common Saw-Scaled Viper, recognized as a distinct species in some taxonomies.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 30-55 cm (12-22 in)
- Range
- Deserts of Pakistan, western India, Afghanistan, and parts of the Middle East
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Overview
Sochurek's Saw-Scaled Viper occupies arid and semi-arid habitats across parts of South Asia, Afghanistan, and the Middle East. It was historically considered a subspecies of Echis carinatus but is now often recognized as a full species.
It shares the defensive rasping behavior typical of the genus and is of significant medical concern where its range overlaps with human populations.
How to identify it
- Small to medium viper, sandy to pale brown coloration with dark blotches
- Serrated, keeled lateral scales for producing a rasping sound
- Triangular head with vertical pupils
- Distinguished from the Common Saw-Scaled Viper by subtle scale-count differences and distribution
Habitat & range
Sandy and rocky deserts, semi-arid scrubland, and agricultural margins across Pakistan, western India, Afghanistan, and parts of the Middle East.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, active after dusk. Highly defensive, rasping loudly when disturbed. Feeds on rodents, lizards, and invertebrates. Viviparous, giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
How does it differ from the Common Saw-Scaled Viper?
It is now often classified as a distinct species based on subtle morphological and genetic differences, though closely related.
Is it medically important?
Yes, it is considered a medically significant venomous snake in parts of its range.
Where is it found?
Deserts of Pakistan, western India, Afghanistan, and the Middle East.
How does it warn off threats?
By rubbing serrated scales together to produce a loud rasping sound while coiled.
Sochurek's Saw-Scaled Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Sochurek's Saw-Scaled Viper.
