Horned Viper
The horned viper is a venomous snake living in North Africa. It frequents the desert but also rocky regions. It owes its name to the two scales erect on its head which form small horns. It has a very characteristic triangular head which stands out from its rather thin neck. It can reach 80cm in length and can live up to 10 years. Its coloring perfectly imitates the shades of sand.
The horned viper feeds on small rodents and lizards. It often makes do with the water contained in the body of its prey. It winters for 2 to 3 months.
Its movements cause a small squealing sound due to its aerodynamic dorsal plates allowing it to move backwards.