European adder

Description

The adder is a venomous snake of the viper family, small to medium in size, usually 50-70 centimetres long. Its most recognisable feature is the dark zigzag band running the length of its back, on a grey, brown or reddish ground; wholly black (melanistic) individuals also occur. It has a stocky body, a triangular head and vertical pupils, typical of vipers.

Habitat and distribution

It has the widest and most northerly range of all vipers: it occurs across much of Eurasia and is the only snake found even beyond the Arctic Circle. It frequents heaths, clearings, bogs, sunny slopes and woodland edges, often in cool, damp hill and mountain habitats.

Behaviour

It is a diurnal, shy animal that basks in the sun during the cooler hours. It feeds on small mammals, lizards and amphibians, which it kills with a venomous bite. It is ovoviviparous: the eggs develop inside the mother's body, and she gives birth to fully formed young. In winter it hibernates, often in groups.

The bite and precautions

The adder is venomous but not aggressive: it bites only if trodden on, seized or cornered. The bite is painful but rarely fatal to a healthy adult. In case of a bite, one should stay calm, immobilise the limb and go to hospital at once, without attempting home remedies.

Conservation

It is classed as least concern globally, but in many regions it is declining and protected. The main threats are habitat destruction, fragmentation and direct killing out of fear.