Reptile · GBIF taxon 8544034
Central Asian Pit Viper
Gloydius halysAlso known as Halys Pit Viper, Siberian Pit Viper, Halys Viper
Central Asian pit vipers rely on specialized heat-sensing facial pits to target warm-blooded prey in low-light environments. Perfectly camouflaged against rocky slopes and arid steppes, these adaptable reptiles spend early mornings basking before retreating to shade during midday heat. Females give birth to live young late in the summer, giving offspring immediate independence to hunt small lizards and insects.
VenomousReptileAmbush Predator
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Voles
- Lizards
- Small Birds
Predators
- Eagles
- Raptors
- Badgers
ThreatsHabitat conversion, agricultural development, and human persecution
HabitatsSteppes, semideserts, rocky mountain slopes, and scrublands
Life span10–15 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyViperidae
- SpeciesGloydius halys
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskVery high
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is very high
- Delivers a painful venomous bite if stepped on or provoked; keep a safe distance and wear sturdy boots.
- Why it is dangerous
- Venom contains hemotoxins and cytotoxins that cause local swelling, tissue necrosis, intense pain, and potential systemic illness.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Look for a broad triangular head, facial heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril, and dark crossbands over a tan or grey body.
- What to do
- Never attempt to catch or handle this snake; step back slowly if encountered along a path.
Responsible observation
- Watch Your Step: Scan carefully before stepping over fallen logs or rocky outcrops in steppe habitats.
- Maintain Distance: Use binoculars or a long camera lens to observe without disturbing its resting posture.
Competitor Charles J. Sharp / CC BY-SA 4.0 · cc-by-sa
Close Relative (c) Alpsdake, some rights reserved (CC BY-SA) · cc-by-sa
Close Relative
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