Hors d'oeuvres

Horned Viper

The Horned Viper is a common name for several species of venomous vipers that are known for the distinctive "horns" above their eyes. These species belong to the family Viperidae and are found in various regions across the world, including Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Europe.

Species

There are several species of vipers that are commonly referred to as horned vipers. These include:

• The Cerastes cerastes, or Sahara horned viper, which is found in the deserts of North Africa and the Middle East.
• The Cerastes vipera, or Saharan horned viper, which is also native to North Africa.
• The Bitis nasicornis, or Rhinoceros viper, which is found in the forests of Central and West Africa.
• The Vipera ammodytes, or Nose-horned viper, which is native to Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.

Characteristics

Horned vipers are known for their distinctive "horns", which are actually modified scales located above the eyes. These horns serve various purposes, including protection from predators and camouflage in their desert or forest habitats.

These vipers are venomous, and their bites can be dangerous to humans. However, they are not typically aggressive and will only bite in self-defense.

Habitat and Behavior

Horned vipers are found in a variety of habitats, from deserts to forests. They are typically nocturnal, hunting for prey at night and resting during the day. They feed on a variety of small animals, including rodents, birds, and lizards.

Conservation Status

The conservation status of horned vipers varies by species. Some, like the Sahara horned viper, are listed as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), while others, like the Rhinoceros viper, are considered Near Threatened.

See Also

• Viperidae
• Venomous snake
• Snakebite