@exploreherp: Saw-scaled viper in it's striking mode ( වැලි පොළඟා) Saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus) The saw-scaled viper is a medically important snake species in Sri Lanka, mainly found in dry zone scrublands and sandy areas. It is commonly seen in places like Bundala, Mannar, Puttalam, Yala, Mullaitivu, and Panama, and is most active during the evening and night. It is easily irritated and, when disturbed, produces a distinctive sound by rubbing its scales together. It mainly feeds on small invertebrates, small mammals, and reptiles. Bites are relatively common in areas where it occurs. Although no confirmed deaths have been recorded in Sri Lanka, its bites can cause serious systemic and local symptoms. Earlier, due to some physical differences and lack of fatal cases, it was thought that the Sri Lankan population might be a different subspecies. However, genetic research in 2025 confirmed that it is the same subspecies found in South India (Echis carinatus carinatus). Mannar, Sri Lanka #herpertology #srilanka #viper

Janith Hasaranga

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Region: LK

Saturday 02 May 2026 13:00:12 GMT