Vipera ursinii graeca
A species of Palaearctic vipers Scientific name : Vipera ursinii graeca Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Vipera ursinii graeca, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Scientific name: Vipera ursinii graeca
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Description
Vipera ursinii graeca is a species of viper that operates with a sit-and-wait predation strategy, taking advantage of grassy habitats to camouflage while it awaits its prey. Its venom, though not highly toxic, incapacitates small vertebrates which it swiftly devours. Intriguingly, during mating season, males perform a 'dance' to compete for females, an unusual behavior among vipers.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Vipera ursinii graeca predominantly feeds on small vertebrates such as lizards and voles. Within its habitat, it shows a preference for Lacerta spp lizards and Microtus spp rodents, consuming them as primary prey.
Appearance
A relatively small snake, vipera ursinii graeca reaches an average length of 50 cm. Males are generally smaller and slimmer than females. Vipera ursinii graeca has smooth, shiny scales in varying shades of gray, brown, or black, occasionally with a zigzag pattern along the back. Its underbelly is lighter, often cream or off-white. Significant differences between subspecies include color variations and presence of dorsal patterns.
Behavior
Vipera ursinii graeca is a predominantly solitary and cryptic species, notorious for its sit-and-wait strategy to ambush prey. It hibernates in communal hibernacula during the colder months. This viper shows great fidelity to its home range, adopting a defensive posture when threatened, making it highly territorial. It communicates with conspecifics through primarily chemical signals.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Vipera ursinii graeca 
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