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Article: Palestine. (Only In).(Palestinian viper)
- Article from:
- Faces: People, Places, and Cultures
- Article date:
- May 1, 2003
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2003 Carus Publishing Co. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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The word "viper" is derived from the Greek and usually refers to a poisonous snake.
The Palestinian viper (scientific name Vipera palaestinae) is just that.
During hot days, it quietly hides in the shadows under houses and barns, stones, and wood piles. Once darkness falls and the temperature cools, the snake is ready for action. Vipers are carnivores, which means they eat meat. It slithers from its hideout and searches for food--usually mice, rats, birds, and lizards. It lies in wait coiled tightly, ready to strike like lightning. Vipers can consume as much as 100 percent of their body weight in food.
This is not a timid snake. It will attack ...