Vipera aspis zinnikeri
A species of Palaearctic vipers Scientific name : Vipera aspis zinnikeri Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Vipera aspis zinnikeri, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Scientific name: Vipera aspis zinnikeri
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Bernard DUPONT , used under CC-BY-SA-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Vipera aspis zinnikeri is a nocturnal serpent, endemic to certain regions of Europe. Highly elusive, it prefers solitude and is known to exhibit aggressive behaviors only in self-defense. Economically vital, vipera aspis zinnikeri aids in controlling the population of various rodent species, serving an important ecological function. Its sensitivity to environmental changes makes it a critical bio-indicator species.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Vipera aspis zinnikeri is a carnivorous animal with a preference for small warm-blooded mammals. It exhibits notable dietary variations, favoring rodents, shrews, and the occasional bird. Adept at hunting, it uses its venom to immobilize its prey before consumption.
Appearance
Vipera aspis zinnikeri is a relatively large snake, stretching up to 85 cm, with a stout, streamlined body. Its skin is characteristically covered in keeled, imbricated scales. Typically, the snake exhibits a mixture of grey, brown, and black hues arranged in a disruptive pattern, giving an effective camouflage. Adult females are usually larger in size and duller in color than males. A distinguishing feature includes a distinct zigzag pattern stretching along its back.
Behavior
Vipera aspis zinnikeri is a solitary and territorial species, primarily nocturnal, known for its active foraging during twilight and early nights. It uses chemoreception for prey detection and mates during spring. Uniquely, the female protects the nest until offspring's birth, ensuring increased survival rates. Adapted to Mediterranean climates, this species demonstrates seasonal migration to warmer areas during winter months.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Vipera aspis zinnikeri 
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