Vipera aspis

Vipera aspis
Scientific classification
Kingdom:	Animalia
Phylum:	Chordata
Class:	Reptilia
Order:	Squamata
Suborder:	Serpentes
Family:	Viperidae
Subfamily:	Viperinae
Genus:	Vipera
Species:	V. aspis
Binomial name
Vipera aspis Linnaeus, 1758

The European asp (Vipera aspis), also known as the aspic viper, is a venomous species of snake of the family viperidae, native to central Europe.

Description

Vipera aspis is a moderate-sized snake, growing to an adult length of between 70 to 90 centimetres, with a relatively thick body. Males are normally larger than females. The snake is distinguished by its broad triangular head, delineated from the body by a covering of small scales, and by its vertical pupils. The dorsal markings vary from individual to individual but in general take the form of a dark brown or black zigzag.

If threatened, it will hiss and make small forward jerking motions of its head.

Habitat

It can be found throughout many countries north of the Mediterranean, particularly France, Italy and Switzerland, but can range as far north as Sweden. It is particularly common at moderate altitudes within the Alps and Pyrenees. It favours warm, dry environments such as south-facing rocky surfaces and river banks exposed to the sun. However, it is also to be found in marshy areas or woodlands.

Venom

As with other members of the viper family, the European asp is poisonous, armed with poison glands connected to curved fangs which enable it to inject venom deeply into the tissues of its prey, which typically comprises small mammals or fledgling birds. At rest the fangs lie towards the back in folds of skin within the mouth. The vemon contains a hemotoxin which causes cardiac arrest in the victim.

References

• "Vipera aspis" (PDF). European Nature Information System. Retrieved 2006-05-07.