Wagner's Viper
Montivipera wagneri
A stocky, brightly patterned mountain viper from the highlands of eastern Anatolia, considered one of the most venomous vipers in its range.
- Venomous?
- Venomous
- Adult length
- 0.6-1.0 m (2-3.3 ft)
- Range
- Eastern Turkey, Armenia, and northwestern Iran
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Overview
Wagner's Viper is a member of the Montivipera group of large-headed, montane vipers restricted to the mountains of the Middle East and Caucasus. It occupies a small, fragmented range in high-altitude grasslands and rocky slopes.
Due to its restricted distribution and habitat degradation from agriculture and grazing, the species is considered threatened, and it is one of the rarer vipers encountered in the wild.
How to identify it
- Stout body with a broad, triangular head distinct from the neck
- Ground color grayish, tan, or pale brown with a row of large dark, often ocellated (eye-like) blotches down the back
- Belly pale with dark speckling
- Vertically elliptical pupils typical of vipers
- Distinguished from other Montivipera by blotch shape and scale counts, requiring close comparison
Habitat & range
Found on rocky, sparsely vegetated mountain slopes and high-altitude steppe, typically between 1,500 and 2,500 m elevation, in eastern Turkey, Armenia, and adjacent Iran.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily diurnal in cooler months, becoming more crepuscular in summer heat. Feeds on small rodents and other vertebrates. Ambushes prey from concealment among rocks. Reproduction is via live birth (viviparous), typical of the genus.
Frequently asked questions
Is Wagner's Viper dangerous?
Yes, it is a venomous species and bites should be regarded as medically significant.
Where does Wagner's Viper live?
In mountainous terrain of eastern Turkey, Armenia, and northwestern Iran, usually at high elevation.
What does Wagner's Viper eat?
Primarily small mammals and other small vertebrates it ambushes among rocks.
Is Wagner's Viper rare?
Yes, it has a small, fragmented range and is considered threatened by habitat loss.
Wagner's Viper guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Wagner's Viper.
