Vipera

Often referred to as Palaearctic vipers or Eurasian vipers, the genus Vipera comprises venomous snakes with a broad distribution ranging from North Africa to the Arctic Circle, and from Great Britain to Pacific Asia. The name "Vipera" is derived from the Latin words "vivus" (alive) and "pario" (to bear), reflecting the fact that most vipers in this genus give birth to live young. Currently, there are 25 recognized species within this genus.

Vipera vipers are generally smaller and notably robust. The largest species can reach approximately 95 cm (37 inches) in length, while the smallest species grow to around 40 cm (16 inches). They possess distinctive triangular heads, often covered with small scales. Some species exhibit small plates on the top of their heads or even horns situated behind their nasal or supraocular scales. Their colors and patterns vary significantly, from grayish tones with dark bands to brown hues with gray bands edged in black, helping them blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

These vipers are widespread across the Old World, particularly in Europe, including countries like Portugal, Turkey, and the United Kingdom. They also inhabit parts of North Africa, such as Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia, as well as regions in the Caucasus mountains, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, Syria, North Korea, China, and Mongolia. Generally, they prefer cooler climates. In lower latitudes, they are often found at higher altitudes in dry, rocky areas, while in northern regions, they thrive at lower elevations that offer more vegetation and moisture.

In terms of venom, most Vipera species have a blend of neurotoxic and hemotoxic components, though the potency varies. For example, the venom of Vipera ammodytes is highly toxic, whereas Vipera berus possesses venom that is considered less potent. Generally, bites from Vipera vipers are not as severe as those from larger viper species, such as Macrovipera or Daboia.