Vipera ursinii ursinii
A species of Palaearctic vipers Scientific name : Vipera ursinii ursinii Genus : Palaearctic vipers
Vipera ursinii ursinii, A species of Palaearctic vipers
Scientific name: Vipera ursinii ursinii
Genus: Palaearctic vipers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By esant , used under CC-BY-SA-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Vipera ursinii ursinii is an intriguing subject of study primarily for its elusive nature and compelling survival strategies. It showcases a strong preference for colder climates, often residing in high altitudes, thus exhibiting notable resilience. An ambush predator, vipera ursinii ursinii demonstrates a fascinating feeding behavior, lying in wait for the opportune moment to strike its prey, mainly consisting of small mammals and lizards.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Vipera ursinii ursinii primarily sustains itself on a diet rich in orthopteran insects. This species shows a particular predilection for grasshoppers and mantises. Occasionally, it might also consume small lizards when available.
Appearance
Vipera ursinii ursinii is a small, slender-bodied viper with a short tail. Its keeled scales have a variable coloration, from gray or brown to yellowish, often with a zigzag pattern along the back. This species typically possesses a V or X-shaped mark on its head. It lacks any notable difference in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Vipera ursinii ursinii is a solitary animal, with a predominantly diurnal activity pattern. It primarily predates on small rodents and lizards through ambush strategy, demonstrating excellent patience and camouflage skills. Males show seasonal territoriality and engage in ritualized combat during the breeding season, while females return to their birthplaces to give birth. Though venomous, vipera ursinii ursinii prefers to avoid confrontation through hiding or fleeing.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Vipers Genus
Palaearctic vipers Species
Vipera ursinii ursinii 
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