Fauna
Reptile

Armenian Viper

Vipera raddei

Also known as Radde's Viper, Armenian Mountain Viper, Rock Viper

Armenian vipers blend seamlessly into high-altitude scree slopes and boulder fields across the Armenian Highlands, relying on cryptic patterning to ambush small rodents and lizards. Raised horn-like supraocular scales give their heads a fierce profile while shielding their eyes from glare among sun-baked rocks. During cool mountain mornings, they bask on exposed stone before retreating deep into underground crevices to escape midday heat.

VenomousAlpineReptile
Armenian Viper reference
Tim Vickers / Public domain · cc0
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Near ThreatenedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNear ThreatenedRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyRodents, Lizards, Small birds
Predators
  • Eagles
  • Hawks
  • Badgers
ThreatsPoaching for pet trade, venom collection, and habitat loss
HabitatsRocky mountain slopes, alpine meadows, and stone scree fields
Life span10 to 15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyViperidae
  2. SpeciesVipera raddei
Range & activity
Range data is not available yet.
Safe observation
Interaction riskVery high
  1. Low
  2. Moderate
  3. High
  4. Very high
Why interaction risk is very high
Venomous bite requires urgent medical care; maintain a safe distance and never attempt to handle.
Why it is dangerous
Cytotoxic and hemotoxic venom causes severe local tissue damage, intense pain, and potential systemic hemorrhaging.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for prominent horn-like scales above each eye, a broad triangular head, and an orange-brown spotted pattern.
What to do
Keep at least two meters back, never corner the snake, and avoid reaching into rock crevices or under loose stones.
What to notice
Medium-sized stout viper with raised eye scales, restricted to high-altitude rocky terrain in the Caucasus region.
Support conservation
Obscure location data on public photos and refrain from disturbing stone piles or thermal basking spots.
Responsible observation
  • Maintain Distance: Stand at least two meters away to allow the snake space to retreat into rock crevices.
  • Watch Your Step: Scan rocky ledges and crevices carefully before placing hands or feet during alpine hikes.
Related species
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