Reptiles
Nose-horned Viper
Vipera ammodytes · also called sand viper
On a sun-warmed limestone slope in Croatia, a nose-horned viper lies coiled in the rocks, its zigzag back almost invisible against the pale stone.
Overview
The nose-horned viper, Vipera ammodytes, is a Least Concern venomous snake of sunny, rocky slopes and dry scrub from northeastern Italy and southern Austria through the Balkans to Greece and Turkey. Its snout horn, zigzag back, and potent venom make it the most feared snake of southeastern Europe.
A viper with a horn
The horn on the snout is made of soft scales and has no known use in defence, but it makes the snake easy to recognise.
Status
Least Concern, though some local populations are declining.
Nose-horned Viper: common questions
Why is it called the nose-horned viper?
It is named for the soft, scaly horn on the tip of its snout.
Is the nose-horned viper the most dangerous snake in Europe?
It is widely regarded as the most dangerous, with a potent venom and long fangs, so any bite needs urgent medical treatment.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it gives birth to live young, usually in late summer.
Where is the nose-horned viper found?
It lives on sunny, rocky slopes and dry scrub from northeastern Italy and southern Austria through the Balkans to Greece and Turkey.