Montivipera wagneri

(Nilson & Andren, 1984)

Vernacular names
English : Wagner’s viper
French : Vipère de Wagner

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
Big viper species, growing to nearly 1 m in length. Large triangular head. Ashy grey coloration with black spots on flanks and band behind eyes. Alternating orange markings, edged with black on each sides of back.

Range and habitat
This species occurs in western Asia (Asia Minor), in eastern Turkey and northern Iran. Lives in rocky mountain slopes with enough humidity, facing north.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : CRITICALLY ENDANGERED
CITES : Appendix II
Status : The species is declining steeply because of overcollection. The construction of a dam in the Aras river valley is a big threat for its survival.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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