Russell's viper

තිත් පොළඟා · thith polanga

Daboia russelii

Highly venomous

A bite from this species is a medical emergency.

Call 1990 Bite first aid

Sri Lanka's deadliest snake — cause of ~70% of snakebite deaths.

How to identify

1Chain of dark oval blotches with pale borders down the back

2Flat triangular head, distinct from neck

3Loud hiss and coiled S-posture when threatened

If bitten

MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Keep the victim calm and still, immobilise the bitten limb with a splint at or below heart level. Remove rings and tight clothing. Do NOT cut, suck, apply a tourniquet or ice. Note the bite time and reach a hospital with antivenom immediately.

Bite first aid Find a handler

Up to 1.5 m

Length

Nocturnal & crepuscular

Active

Rodents

Diet

Where it's found

Dry zoneWet zoneIntermediate zone

Grassland, scrub, paddy fields and home gardens where rodents are common.