Asp
A species of Palaearctic vipers, Also known as European asp, European viper, Vibora aspid Scientific name : Vipera aspis Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Asp, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Also known as:
European asp, European viper, Vibora aspid
Scientific name: Vipera aspis
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By robertschaub , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Vipera aspis is a venomous viper species found in southwestern Europe. Its common names include asp, asp viper, European asp, and aspic viper, among others. Bites from this species can be more severe than from the European adder, V. berus; not only can they be very painful, but also about 4% of all untreated bites are fatal. The specific epithet, aspis, is a Greek word that means "viper." Five subspecies are currently recognized, including t
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Asp primarily feeds on small mammals and birds, demonstrating preference for mice, voles, and small birds. The snake's diet can occasionally include large insects and lizards, corresponding to their encounter rates in the snake's natural habitat.
Appearance
Asp is a medium-sized snake with a bulky, muscular body covered by rough, keeled scales. They display a variety of colors, typically ranging from gray to brown with a zigzag pattern along the back. Their heads are large and triangular, housing venomous fangs. Subspecies may show variations in colors and patterns, with no noticeable differences between genders or age groups.
Behavior
Asp displays solitariness, interacting only during the mating season. A notable ambushing predator, it uses its natural coloration for effective camouflage in its terrestrial habitats. Asp often exhibits defensive behavior when threatened, raising its forebody and making a loud hissing sound before striking.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Asp 
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