Reptile · GBIF taxon 8909697
Sidewinder
Cerastes cerastesAlso known as Saharan Horned Viper, Desert Horned Viper, Horned Viper, North African Horned Viper
Saharan horned vipers navigate shifting desert sands using a distinctive sidewinding motion that leaves paired, parallel tracks across the dunes. By coiling tightly and shuffling sideways into loose sand, these ambush predators submerge their entire body until only their eyes, horns, and tail tip remain exposed. When threatened, they rub their keeled lateral scales together to produce a loud, rasping warning sound similar to a hiss.
VenomousDesertNocturnal
—observations
—countries
—peak records
Least ConcernConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXLeast ConcernRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Desert Lizards
- Small Rodents
- Geckos
Predators
- Desert Monitor
- Birds of Prey
- Hedgehogs
ThreatsHabitat disturbance, pet trade collection, intentional killing
HabitatsArid deserts, sandy dunes, rocky hammadas
Life span10 to 18 years
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyViperidae
- SpeciesCerastes cerastes
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskVery high
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is very high
- Delivers a painful, potentially dangerous venomous bite; observe safely from a distance.
- Why it is dangerous
- Venom contains hemotoxins and cytotoxins that cause severe swelling, localized tissue necrosis, intense pain, and potential coagulopathy.
- How to recognize a risky encounter
- Recognizable by its sandy tan color, stout body, and a sharp horn-like scale above each eye, leaving sideways J-shaped tracks in dune sand.
- What to do
- Keep at least two meters away, watch your step on loose sand, and never touch or corner a wild snake.
Responsible observation
- Spotting Tracks: Look for distinct J-shaped parallel tracks across loose sand dunes where they sidewind.
- Viewing Safely: Maintain a distance of at least two meters and use a flashlight during nocturnal searches.
- Handling Precautions: Never reach into sand depressions or under rocks where vipers lie buried.
Predator Marius Burger / CC0 · cc0
Competitor Close Relative Close Relative
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