Common Saw-Scaled Viper
Echis carinatus
One of the 'Big Four' medically important snakes of India, small in size but responsible for numerous serious snakebite cases.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 30-50 cm (12-20 in)
- Range
- South Asia including India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka
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Overview
The Common Saw-Scaled Viper is one of South Asia's most medically significant snakes, part of India's so-called 'Big Four' venomous species responsible for the majority of snakebite incidents in the region.
Despite its small size, it is abundant, highly defensive, and frequently encountered near human habitation, agricultural fields, and rocky terrain.
How to identify it
- Small, stout viper with sandy to reddish-brown coloration
- Row of pale blotches down the back bordered by dark, wavy side markings often forming a zigzag
- Serrated keeled lateral scales for producing a rasping warning sound
- Triangular head clearly set off from the neck, vertical pupils
- Distinguished from other Echis subspecies mainly by South Asian range
Habitat & range
Dry scrubland, rocky terrain, agricultural fields, and semi-desert areas across India, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, often near human settlements.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, most active at night and during cooler periods. Highly defensive, coiling in a figure-eight shape and rasping loudly when threatened. Feeds on rodents, lizards, and arthropods. Viviparous, giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it part of the 'Big Four'?
It is one of four snake species responsible for the vast majority of snakebite cases in India due to its abundance and frequent contact with people.
How does it produce its rasping sound?
By rubbing rows of specialized serrated scales along its sides together while coiled.
Is it aggressive?
It is highly defensive and quick to strike when disturbed, though it does not seek out confrontation.
What does it eat?
Rodents, lizards, and various arthropods.
Common Saw-Scaled Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Common Saw-Scaled Viper.
