Cerastes

Cerastes is a genus of venomous vipers found in the deserts of North Africa and parts of the Middle East. These snakes are known for their distinctive horn-like structures above their eyes, which give them a unique appearance. The genus includes three species: Cerastes cerastes, Cerastes gasperettii, and Cerastes vipera.

Description

Cerastes vipers are relatively small, with adults typically measuring between 30 and 60 centimeters in length. They have a stout body, a broad head, and keeled scales. The coloration of these snakes is usually sandy or light brown, which provides excellent camouflage in their desert habitats. The most distinguishing feature of Cerastes vipers is the presence of supraocular "horns" in some individuals, particularly in Cerastes cerastes.

Habitat

Cerastes vipers inhabit arid and semi-arid regions, including deserts, rocky areas, and sandy dunes. They are primarily found in countries such as Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Israel. These snakes are well-adapted to their harsh environments, often burying themselves in the sand to avoid extreme temperatures and to ambush prey.

Behavior

Cerastes vipers are primarily nocturnal, becoming active during the cooler hours of the night. They are ambush predators, lying in wait for small mammals, birds, and lizards. When prey approaches, they strike with lightning speed, delivering a potent venom that immobilizes their victim. These vipers are also known for their sidewinding locomotion, which allows them to move efficiently across loose sand.

Reproduction

Cerastes vipers are oviparous, meaning they lay eggs. Females typically lay between 8 and 23 eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of about 50 to 80 days. The hatchlings are independent from birth and receive no parental care.

Venom

The venom of Cerastes vipers is primarily hemotoxic, causing tissue damage, pain, and swelling. While bites from these snakes can be serious, they are rarely fatal to humans if medical treatment is sought promptly. Antivenom is available for bites from Cerastes species.

Species

• Cerastes cerastes - Commonly known as the Saharan horned viper.
• Cerastes gasperettii - Known as the Arabian horned viper.
• Cerastes vipera - Also called the Saharan sand viper.

Related Pages

• Viperidae
• Venomous snakes
• Desert fauna
• Reptiles of North Africa
• Reptiles of the Middle East