Southern Caucasian Viper
Critically Endangered
Population
Around 400 to 500 individuals are estimated to remain
Size
The length of species ranges from 25 to 43 centimetres with females growing larger
Weight
Not enough data exists to provide an accurate weight
Countries
Armenia, Turkey and Georgia
Distribution
The species is endemic to the Caucasus region where it has been recorded from Armenia and possibly two localities in Turkey, and is possibly also present in Georgia with rumoured sightings
Description
The species body colour is of a light brown, grey colour with a dark brown to black zigzag pattern going over its body, while the belly has many grey and black dots over an almost black belly for males to a more grey colour in females. The males in general have brighter pattern colours than the females of the species.
Quick Facts
Key behaviour of the Vipera darevskii includes:
- Breeding occurs in May
- Females give birth to 4 to 8 babies
- Newborns are around 15 to 18 centimetres long
- Babies have their first shed after 10 to 14 days
The Vipera darevskii diets consists of:
- Lizards
- Small rodents
- Orthopterans
The species main habitat consists of mountain ridgest which make up the coldest, but most humid regions of the Armenian Highlands. Areas with High mountainous moraines, as well as outcrops of bedrock surrounded by alpine grasslands, are being utilized as the main habitat for the species.
The main threats to the existence of the species include:
- Limited distribution range – limited to less than 10 square kilometres
- Population fragmentation
- Overgrazing of livestock in the species population
- Illegal pet trade
Conservation Efforts
There are currently very little research and conservation efforts for the species. More needs to be done to help ensure the survival of the species.
