European adder

The common European adder or viper (Vipera berus) has the widest range of any snake. It is the only venomous reptile in Great Britain and the bite is rarely fatal. They reach 65 cm (2 ft) in length, sometimes up to 90 cm (3 ft). There is a dark zigzag pattern along the dorsum and a dark V or X mark on the head. The background colour is usually grey but may be reddish-brown, yellow or greenish. They are mostly diurnal and eat small rodents and some lizards. They are viviparous.