Greater Mouse-tailed Bat

Mammals > Bats

The Greater Mouse-tailed Bat (Rhinopoma microphyllum) is a highly specialized chiropteran uniquely adapted to survive in some of the most arid, inhospitable desert regions on Earth. Belonging to the ancient family Rhinopomatidae, it is instantly distinguished by its...

Long-eared Hedgehog

Mammals > Eulipotyphla

The Long-eared Hedgehog (Hemiechinus auritus) is the swift, radar-eared miniature survivor of the sun-scorched deserts and dry steppes of Central Asia and the Middle East. Considerably smaller, faster, and more agile than its heavy-set European cousin, this...

Near Eastern Fire Salamander

Amphibians > Salamanders & Newts

The Near Eastern Fire Salamander (Salamandra infraimmaculata) is an impressive, ancient, and brilliantly colored amphibian native to the rugged limestone mountains and Mediterranean woodlands of the Levant and southern Anatolia. Reaching lengths exceeding 30...

Coin-marked Snake

Reptiles > Snakes

The Coin-marked Snake (Hemorrhois nummifer), also widely known as the Asian Racer or Coin Snake, is a large, harmless colubrid snake native to the sun-drenched rocky landscapes of the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. Named for the bold pattern of rounded,...

Blunt-nosed Viper

Reptiles > Snakes

The Blunt-nosed Viper (Macrovipera lebetina), also known as the Levantine Viper or Lebetine Viper, is the largest and most formidable venomous snake in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. Endemic to sun-baked rocky gorges, mountain slopes, and agricultural...