Daboia palaestinae
Daboia palaestinae, also known as the Palestine viper, is a viper species endemic to the Levant. Like all vipers, it is venomous. It is considered a leading cause of snakebite within its range. No subspecies are currently recognized.
The Palestine viper is a large venomous snake native to Western Asia. It is considered a leading cause of snakebite within its range. In 2018 this viper was named Israel's national snake.
Palestine vipers are found in northern and central Israel, Palestine, western Syria, northwestern Jordan, and Lebanon. These snakes inhabit the Mediterranean coastal plains, shrubland, inland hills and often occur in agricultural areas.
Palestine vipers are solitary and elusive snakes. They are active during the night spending most of the time ambushing their prey. When sensing danger these snakes usually try to avoid contact and warn with the exhaling sounds before they bite.
Palestine vipers are carnivores feeding on rodents, small reptiles, and birds.
The breeding season of Palestine vipers takes place between April and May. The female lays 7 to 22 eggs and the incubation period lasts 39-62 days depending on the temperature.
Palestine vipers don't face any major threats at present.
According to IUCN, the Palestine viper is common throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.
