Vipera ursinii moldavica
A species of Palaearctic vipers Scientific name : Vipera ursinii moldavica Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Vipera ursinii moldavica, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Scientific name: Vipera ursinii moldavica
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Description
Vipera ursinii moldavica is a viper species with unique behaviors and ecological significance. Mastery in camouflage enables it to efficiently blend into its grassland habitats for stealth hunting, often preying upon small mammals, reptiles, and insects. An advantageous adaptation of vipera ursinii moldavica is its ovo-viviparous mode of reproduction; the females give 'live birth', ensuring the vulnerable young have a higher survival rate.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Vipera ursinii moldavica primarily survives on a diet composed of small rodents and insects. It possesses a particular affinity for lizards, consuming them frequently within their natural habitats. This snake also feeds on small birds, usually capturing unsuspecting prey.
Appearance
Vipera ursinii moldavica is a small snake, with a slender and elongated body covered in smooth, keeled scales. It exhibits a light grey or beige coloration with a distinctive zigzag pattern in dark brown or black. A striking feature is the V-shaped markings on its head. Unlike many snake species, there are no significant visual differences between males and females or across different age groups.
Behavior
Vipera ursinii moldavica exhibits solitary behavior, primarily being active during the day. It has a passive hunting style, often lying in wait to ambush prey. A generalist predator, it feeds on arthropods and occasionally small mammals or birds. It releases a foul-smelling substance when threatened. Notably, vipera ursinii moldavica hibernates during colder months in dens or underground burrows.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Vipera ursinii moldavica 
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