Adder

Vipera berus

The Adder is a small snake with a zigzag pattern on its back! They are usually shy and prefer to hide.

Habitat: Forests and heathland

Appearance

The Adder has a distinctive dark zigzag pattern running along its grey, brown, or sometimes reddish-brown body. Males are typically grey with black markings, while females are browner with darker brown marks. Its slender body and flattened head distinguish it from non-venomous snakes.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassSquamataOrderSerpentesFamilyViperidaeGenusVipera

Adder

Interesting facts

Adder babies are born live, not from eggs, making them unique among many snakes!

Adders bask in the sun to warm up, helping their cold-blooded bodies stay active.

An Adder can 'smell' using its tongue, flicking it to pick up scents from the air.

They are the only venomous snake species found in the Arctic Circle!

Special abilities

Adder can inject venom using two hollow fangs, which helps them quickly overpower and immobilize their prey.

Adder has a patterned skin that provides excellent camouflage, helping them blend into their surroundings to ambush prey.

Adder gives birth to live young, not eggs, which helps protect the developing babies inside the mother's body.

Measurements & details

Length: 60-90 cm
Weight: 0.05-0.18 kg
Lifespan: 10-20 years
Top Speed: 6 km/h
Clutch Size: 3-20

Diet & Feeding

The Adder is a carnivore, primarily eating small mammals and sometimes birds or lizards.

Age differences: Juveniles primarily eat lizards and amphibians, while adults consume larger prey.

Primary Foods

Field voles
Shrews
Mice
Small birds
Lizards

Foraging Method

Ambush

Ecological connections

hunts

Field Vole

Microtus agrestis

A primary prey item for adult Adders.

hunts

Common Shrew

Sorex araneus

Frequently hunted by Adders, especially smaller individuals.

hunts

Common Lizard

Zootoca vivipara

An important food source, particularly for juvenile Adders.

eaten by

Common Buzzard

Buteo buteo

Buzzards are known predators of Adders, especially young snakes.

Traits

Wildlife

Step into the incredible world of wild animals and plants living freely in nature. From tiny insects to towering trees, it's all part of the wild wonders around us!

Solitary

Meet animals that enjoy their independence! These creatures prefer to live by themselves, finding food and shelter on their own.

Camouflaged

Look closely for animals that are masters of disguise, blending perfectly into their surroundings! Their colors and patterns help them hide from others.

Forest

These lush habitats are filled with countless trees, offering homes to a huge variety of plants and animals! Immerse yourself in the green canopy.

Carnivorous

Discover fierce hunters and clever predators that get all their energy from eating other animals. They play a vital role in keeping nature's balance.

Nocturnal

Explore the secret world of animals that come alive at night! They are wide awake when it's dark, using their amazing senses to find food and play.

Venomous

Be amazed by animals that can inject special substances to defend themselves or catch their food! They deliver their potent dose through a bite or a sting.