All species Highly venomous Pending expert review
Russell's viper
Daboia russelii
- තිත් පොළඟා
- கண்ணாடி விரியன்
This profile is pending review by a qualified herpetologist. Never rely on it to decide whether a snake is safe to approach.
Overview
One of Sri Lanka's most medically important snakes, responsible for many serious bites, particularly in farming areas.
How to recognise it
- 1Three rows of dark, pale-edged oval blotches along the back
- 2Large, flat, triangular head distinct from the neck
- 3Loud, sustained hiss when disturbed
Where it lives
Grassland, scrub and farmland, especially paddy fields in the dry and intermediate zones.