viper

Viper is a common name for venomous snakes in the family Viperidae. The group is divided into two subfamilies: Viperinae, the true vipers, and Crotalinae, the pit vipers. Members are found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica, with the greatest diversity in Africa, Asia, and the Americas.

Typical vipers have long, hinged fangs that fold back against the roof of the mouth and can deliver venom efficiently. Venom is usually hemotoxic or cytotoxic, damaging tissue and blood and potentially causing swelling, necrosis, and bleeding disorders. Pit vipers possess heat-sensing pits between the eye and nostril that help detect warm-blooded prey in dim light and poor visibility.

Vipers are primarily ambush predators, feeding on small vertebrates such as rodents, birds, lizards, and amphibians. Reproduction varies by species; some vipers lay eggs (oviparous), while others give birth to live young (viviparous). Behavior ranges from secretive to actively hunting, and encounters with humans are often defensive rather than predatory.

Human encounters can be dangerous; bites require prompt medical attention and, where available, antivenom. Many vipers are threatened by habitat destruction, persecution, and collection for the pet trade or traditional medicines. Some species are protected by law and targeted by conservation programs to reduce population declines and preserve ecological roles.

In popular culture and industry, the name viper is also associated with other uses, such as the Dodge Viper, a high-performance American sports car produced by Chrysler from 1992 to 2017.