Burrowing Vipers
Venomous Serpents of Africa and the Middle East
A Genus of Serpentine Delights
Burrowing vipers, also known as asp vipers, mole vipers, and stiletto snakes, belong to the genus Atractaspis. These venomous snakes are distributed across Africa and the Middle East, with a remarkable diversity of species.
The Small-scaled burrowing asp (Atractaspis microlepidota) is one such species, found in Senegal. These snakes are relatively small, with a body length of around 30 cm. Despite their size, they possess potent venom that can cause severe pain and paralysis.
Atractaspidids, the family to which burrowing vipers belong, are a fascinating group of snakes. They are characterized by their small heads, slender bodies, and secretive nature. Most species are nocturnal, spending their days hidden underground in burrows or under rocks.
Burrowing vipers play an important role in their ecosystems, preying on small mammals and reptiles. Their venom serves both as a means of defense and as a way to immobilize their prey.
Despite their venomous nature, burrowing vipers are not typically aggressive towards humans. However, their bites can cause serious medical complications, so it is important to exercise caution when encountering these snakes.
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