Fauna
Reptile

Saw-scaled Viper

Echis carinatus

Also known as Sindh Saw-scaled Viper, Indian Saw-scaled Viper, Little Indian Viper

Saw-scaled vipers are small, highly aggressive pitless vipers recognized by their rough, keeled scales that produce a loud rasping sound when rubbed together in a threat display. Primarily nocturnal, these secretive reptiles move using sideways winding locomotion across sandy and rocky terrain where they blend seamlessly into leaf litter and gravel. Possessing exceptionally potent cytotoxic and hemotoxic venom, they cause a substantial portion of snakebite fatalities across the Indian subcontinent.

VenomousNocturnalReptile
Saw-scaled Viper reference1 / 7
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyRodents, Lizards, Scorpions
Predators
  • Birds of prey
  • Mongoose
  • Larger snakes
ThreatsPersecution by humans, severe habitat conversion
HabitatsArid regions, scrub forests, rocky hillsides, agricultural fields
Life span10–15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyViperidae
  2. SpeciesEchis carinatus
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
Highly venomous with a rapid strike; maintain a safe distance and never approach.
Why it is dangerous
Possesses potent hemotoxic and cytotoxic venom that causes localized tissue necrosis, systemic bleeding, and lethal coagulopathy.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a distinct figure-eight coiling display accompanied by a dry rasping sound from rubbing keeled scales together.
What to do
Back away slowly to a distance of at least three meters and never attempt to handle or corner the snake.
Responsible observation
  • Watch your step: Wear sturdy footwear and use a light when walking in arid regions at night.
  • Listen for warning signs: Recognize the dry rasping noise created by stridulating keeled scales.
  • Give wide berth: Freeze immediately if encountered and back away slowly without sudden moves.
Related species
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