Scientific name: Echis coloratus Family: Viperidae Order: Squamata Risk level: Very high Category: Reptiles
? What is a Middle Eastern carpet viper
The painted saw-scaled viper (Echis coloratus) is one of the most dangerous snakes in the Arab region. It is relatively small (45–75 cm), but its venom is highly dangerous and it behaves very aggressively when disturbed. When threatened, it makes a distinctive rustling sound by rubbing its scales together.
Middle Eastern carpet viper life cycle
Reptiles may lay eggs or, in some cases, give birth to live young. Their life cycle depends on environmental temperature. Snakes reproduce once or twice a year.
Where Middle Eastern carpet vipers occur
Reptiles are common in dry and desert regions of Saudi Arabia, the Gulf and the MENA region.
Damage and risks associated with Middle Eastern carpet vipers
Its highly potent hemotoxic venom excessively activates clotting systems, causing widespread bleeding (DIC), kidney failure and death in untreated cases. It is one of the leading causes of snakebite deaths in the region.
Signs of Middle Eastern carpet vipers
Signs include direct sightings, shed skins, tracks in sand and eggs in warm soil.
Where Middle Eastern carpet vipers are found
They occur in dry rocky areas, wadis and desert edges in Saudi Arabia, Sinai and Jordan. They are active at night.
Middle Eastern carpet viper control methods
Completely seal openings. Remove firewood and piled materials. Notify specialists immediately. Do not touch snakes.
Middle Eastern carpet viper control products
Chemical pesticides are not usually used for reptiles. Sticky traps are used for lizards. Remove habitats and seal cracks.
Food-facility control requirements
FSSC/BRCGS: venomous snakes pose an extremely serious occupational risk and require an immediate evacuation protocol and notification of a specialist.
A fact about Middle Eastern carpet vipers
Echis coloratus is responsible for a high proportion of snakebite incidents in the Arabian Peninsula because of its wide distribution and defensive aggression, compared with other species that tend to flee first.
Frequently asked questions
Q: What should I do if I see a snake in a facility?
A: Evacuate the area immediately. Do not approach or try to catch it. Notify a specialist or the relevant authorities. Photograph it from a safe distance for identification.
Q: How can I prevent snakes from entering a building?
A: Seal all openings larger than 6 mm in walls and ceilings. Remove firewood, stones and anything that provides shelter. Bright lighting around the exterior acts as a natural deterrent.
