Facts About Common Mock Viper
The common mock viper, scientifically known as Psammodynastes pulverulentus, is an intriguing small snake native to various regions across Asia. Despite its name, this snake is not a true viper, but it adeptly mimics viper behavior when threatened. Reaching up to approximately 65 cm in length, the common mock viper coils and strikes convincingly, emulating actual vipers to deter potential predators.
This species is widespread, inhabiting countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, India, Bhutan, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Nepal, the Philippines, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Notably, there is a distinct subspecies, Psammodynastes pulverulentus papenfussi, that is endemic to Taiwan.