Share

Short share URL

https://academy.herpeton.net/en/factsheets/snakes/echis-ocellatus/

West African Saw-scaled Viper — Fact Sheet

Echis ocellatus · West African Saw-scaled Viper

📋 At a glance

Adult size40-70 cm
Lifespan10-15 years
SubspeciesNo captive-care subspecies split
OriginSee the full care guide for distribution details.
ActivityNocturnal
DifficultyExpert
LegalCITES: not listed; EU: not listed; local rules still apply

🏠 Enclosure

  • Use the enclosure dimensions, heating, humidity, and safety values from the structured care profile and full care guide.

🌡️ Temperature

  • Basking spot: 31-34 °C
  • Warm zone: 25-29 °C
  • Cool zone: 23-25 °C
  • Night: 20-24 °C

🪳 Feeding

  • Feed according to the prey type and schedule in the structured care profile; remove uneaten prey promptly.

🩺 Health — warning signs

  • Watch for appetite loss, abnormal posture, injury, breathing issues, failed shedding or molting, and sustained weight loss.