\"Beware of Viper's Tail!" - But Venomous Snake is Also Endangered - Viper's Cross Named Reptile of the Year 2024 as Endangered Snake Fights for Survival
No German-speaking organization has named the 'Viper's Cross' as Reptile of the Year 2024. Despite its venomous nature, this snake is facing severe threats due to habitat loss and climate change.
The Viper's Cross is one of only two venomous snake species in Germany, the other being the Aspisviper, which is limited to the Black Forest. Its distinctive features include vertically oriented, slit-like pupils and a dark zigzag band on its back, setting it apart from harmless ringed snakes.
Found mainly in moor and heath areas across Germany, from the North German Plain to the Alpine region, the Viper's Cross is classified as 'strongly endangered' on the red list of endangered species. Habitat loss and climate change are driving this decline. The snake hunts frogs, mice, and lizards, injecting venom after striking its prey.
Despite its venomous nature, bites from the Viper's Cross are not life-threatening and are becoming rarer. Around 20 calls per year are now made to the Poison Information Centre North, compared to up to 50 calls a decade ago. Medical treatment and observation are typically recommended after a bite, with swelling often observed but antivenom rarely needed.
The German Society for Herpetology and Terrarium Keeping (DGHT) and Nabu have named the Viper's Cross the 'Reptile of the Year 2024' to raise awareness of its plight. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect this snake and its habitats, as its future hangs in the balance.
