Himalayan Pit Viper
Gloydius himalayanus
A cold-adapted pit viper found at high elevations across the Himalayas, among the highest-altitude venomous snakes in Asia.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.5-0.8 m (1.6-2.6 ft)
- Range
- Himalayan region, including India, Nepal, and Pakistan
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Overview
The Himalayan Pit Viper is adapted to the cool climates of the high Himalayas, occurring at elevations where few other snake species can survive. Its stocky build and heat-sensing pits allow it to hunt effectively even in cooler mountain conditions.
It is one of relatively few venomous snakes found at such high altitudes, making it ecologically notable within its mountain habitat.
How to identify it
- Stout, moderately sized body with grayish-brown to reddish-brown background color
- Dark, often paired blotches or crossbands along the back
- Triangular head distinct from the neck, with heat-sensing pits
- Vertically elliptical pupils
- Keeled, rough scales
- Distinguished from lowland pit vipers by its high-altitude range and stockier build
Habitat & range
Found in alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and scrub at high elevations across the Himalayas, from roughly 1,500 to over 4,000 meters.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Active during the day in cooler high-altitude conditions, becoming more crepuscular or nocturnal in warmer lowland edges of its range. Feeds on small mammals and lizards. Ovoviviparous, giving birth to live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Himalayan Pit Viper dangerous?
Yes, it is venomous, though encounters with humans are relatively infrequent given its remote high-altitude habitat.
How high up does it live?
It can be found from around 1,500 meters up to over 4,000 meters in the Himalayas.
What does it eat?
Small mammals and lizards.
Does it give live birth?
Yes, like most pit vipers it is ovoviviparous, bearing live young rather than laying eggs.
Himalayan Pit Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Himalayan Pit Viper.
