Fauna
Reptile

Palestine Viper

Daboia palaestinae

Also known as Palestinian Viper

Palestine vipers are heavy-bodied ambush predators easily recognized by the continuous dark brown zigzag stripe stretching down their light grey or yellowish backs. Active primarily after dusk during warm months, they frequently hunt in agricultural fields and groves where rodents congregate. Possessing large retractable fangs and potent venom, they are considered the primary cause of serious snakebites within their native range.

VenomousNocturnalReptile
Palestine Viper reference1 / 2
(c) Zuhair Amr, some rights reserved (CC BY) · cc-by
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Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Key facts
Diet & preyRodents, Birds, Lizards
Predators
  • Short-toed Snake Eagle
  • Egyptian Mongoose
  • Wild Boar
ThreatsDirect persecution, vehicle collisions, habitat loss
HabitatsMediterranean scrub, agricultural lands, orchards, rocky hillsides
Life span10–15 years
Classification
  1. FamilyViperidae
  2. SpeciesDaboia palaestinae
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
Potently venomous bite requiring immediate medical care; stay well back if encountered.
Why it is dangerous
Cytotoxic and hemotoxic venom breaks down body tissue and blood vessels, leading to massive swelling, severe bleeding, and shock.
How to recognize a risky encounter
Look for a triangular broad head and a continuous dark brown zigzag pattern down a greyish-yellow back.
What to do
Freeze immediately upon sighting and step back slowly, never reaching under rocks or thick foliage.
Responsible observation
  • Keep Distance: Stay at least three meters away to remain well outside striking range.
  • Use Lighting: Carry a flashlight when walking through grassy or cultivated areas after dusk.
  • Wear Boots: Wear sturdy, high-top leather boots when trekking in rocky or brushy terrain.
Related species
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