\"Beware of Viper's Tail!" - But Venomous Snake is Also Endangered - Germany's Only Venomous Snake, Viper's Cross, Faces Extinction
The viper's cross, Germany's only venomous snake, is facing alarming decline. Once feared for its bite, now antivenom is rarely recommended due to its decreasing threat. The snake, distinguished by its distinctive appearance, is now classified as 'strongly endangered' and even 'critically endangered' in some regions.
The viper's cross, known for its vertically oriented, slit-like pupils and dark zigzag band, once posed a more significant threat. Bites, now around 20 per year, were once up to 50. However, medical treatment and observation are still recommended post-bite, with swelling often occurring.
The snake's decline is attributed to various factors. Decreasing suitable habitats, climate change, extreme weather, diseases, and lack of corridors between areas are all contributing to its rarity. The German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Keeping (DGHT) and Nabu have named it the 'Reptile of the Year 2024' to raise awareness.
Once widespread in moor and heath areas, mid-mountain ranges, the Black Forest, and the Alpine region, the viper's cross now faces extinction. Its prey, frogs, mice, and lizards, are also in decline, further impacting its survival.
The viper's cross, once a concern for its venomous bite, now faces a more pressing threat: extinction. Conservation efforts are urgently needed to protect this unique species and its habitats. Despite its rarity, medical treatment and observation are still recommended post-bite, with swelling often occurring. The snake's decline serves as a stark reminder of the broader environmental challenges we face.
