Vipera aspis aspis

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Vernacular names
English : Asp viper
French : Vipère aspic

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Viperidae
Notes : 4 other subspecies known.

Identification
Adults reach 85 cm in length but usually less. Distinct upturned snout, triangular head. Coloration is highly variable, from black or brown to beige, grey or reddish with crossbars or x-shaped dark markings on back. Light labial scales.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in Europe, from France and Spain to Germany, south to North Croatia. Subspecies found in France, Switzerland and Germany. Lives in rocky areas, walls, in open habitats, lowland and mountains.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species is listed as Least Concern and has a large range. It is increasingly threatened by overcollection, persecution and above all, loss of habitat to intensive agriculture and overgrazing.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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