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Spider-tailed Horned Viper
The Spider-tailed Horned Viper's remarkable tail mimicry lures birds within striking distance, showcasing nature's ingenuity. Endemic to Iran's rocky landscapes, this elusive predator exemplifies specialized adaptation, blending perfectly with its surroundings to surprise its prey. A master of disguise, it plays a crucial role in its desert ecosystem.
453.592 g
Weight
Length: 51 cm
Size
Grey, Tan
Color
Near Threatened
Conservation Status
Decreasing
Population Trend
Characteristics
Pseudocerastes urarachnoides, also known as the Spider-tailed Horned Viper, is a venomous snake endemic to western Iran. It features a unique tail resembling a spider, used as a lure to attract prey. This viper inhabits rocky terrains and exhibits ambush hunting behavior, blending seamlessly into its arid environment.
Distribution Range of the Spider-tailed Horned Viper
Pseudocerastes urarachnoides, commonly known as the spider-tailed horned viper, is native to western Iran. Its geographical distribution is primarily confined to the provinces of Ilam and Kermanshah.
Spider-tailed Horned Viper's Habitat
Environmental Conditions
The spider-tailed horned viper inhabits arid and semi-arid regions characterized by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation. The climate in these areas is typically hot and dry, with limited rainfall and high temperature variations between day and night.
Ecological Niche
This species is well-adapted to a terrestrial lifestyle in desert-like conditions. It uses its unique caudal appendage, which resembles a spider, as a lure to attract prey, primarily birds. This adaptation highlights its ecological niche as an ambush predator specialized in capturing avian species in its rocky habitat.
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