VIPERA 251 



canthal scales, the second separated from the supra- 

 ocular by the upper preocular. Supraocular with 

 very convex outer border, usually not extending 

 posteriorly beyond the vertical of the eye. Ten to 

 thirteen scales round the eye ; one or two vertical 

 series of scales separate the preoculars from the 

 nasal, which is single or rarely divided, and hollowed 

 out. Two series of scales between the eye and the 

 labials. Upper labials eight to twelve, usually nine 

 or ten, usually fourth and fifth below the eye. 

 Temporal scales smooth or feebly keeled. Four or 

 five lower labials in contact with the single pair of 

 chin-shields. 



Scales in twenty-one or twenty-three (rarely twenty- 

 five) rows, with two apical pits, strongly keeled, those 

 of the outer row smooth or feebly keeled. Ventral 

 shields 143 to 161 in males, 147 to 160 in females; 

 anal entire ; subcaudals 27 to 40 in males, 24 to 37 

 in females. 



Coloration. — Grey, pinkish-grey, brown, yellowish- 

 brown, or brick red above, with a more or less 

 distinct wavy or zigzag black or brown, usually 

 black-edged, band along the back, or a series of large 

 rhombs connected on the median line, with or with- 

 out a lateral series of dark spots ; specimens with the 

 markings of an intense black are males (Plate XIV.). 

 Head with or without dark markings, very variable 

 in disposition, sometimes forming a A on the occiput, 

 or a lyre-shaped figure confluent with the dorsal 



