Endemic to Lebanon and nearby parts of Syria and northern Israel, it has adapted to thrive in rugged, high-altitude habitats where few other reptiles can survive. The Lebanon viper is a stocky, muscular snake with a triangular head and keeled scales that give it a rough texture. Its color patterns vary from gray to brown, and it is decorated with darker blotches and zigzag markings that act as excellent camouflage among rocks and mountain shrubs. As the snake ages, its markings often fade, leaving adults with a subtler, more muted pattern compared to the boldly marked young.

What makes the Lebanon viper truly special is its adaptation to its high-altitude environment. It lives at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,200 meters (3,281 to 7,218 feet), often in cedar forests, alpine meadows, or rocky slopes. These are places where temperatures can swing dramatically between day and night, and where survival requires resilience. Instead of laying eggs like many snakes, the Lebanon viper gives birth to live young, sometimes as many as 18 in a single litter. This adaptation gives the offspring a much greater chance of survival in colder, unpredictable climates where egg incubation would be risky. Their role in the ecosystem is vital, helping to control populations of small mammals, lizards, and birds, which form the bulk of their diet.

In terms of behavior, the Lebanon viper is a patient ambush predator. It relies on stealth and camouflage to blend in with its rocky surroundings, lying in wait for prey to pass within striking distance. Once close enough, it delivers a fast, precise strike with its venomous fangs. While its venom is dangerous to small animals and can be medically significant for humans, the viper is generally reclusive and avoids contact whenever possible.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Israel

2006

Jordan

2006

Lebanon

2006

Syria

2006