Veterinarian Mikhail Zorin has shared essential tips for distinguishing between a venomous viper and a harmless grass snake, as these reptiles are often mistaken for one another.
“Let’s start with the main visual marker of a viper – a zigzag stripe running along its entire back, a vertical pupil, and a triangular head clearly demarcated from the neck. Vipers are short, stocky, and move slowly. Their bite is dangerous and requires immediate medical attention, especially for children and the elderly,” the expert noted.
Grass snakes, in contrast, have two yellow or orange spots on the sides of their heads. Additionally, these reptiles have round pupils, and their heads transition smoothly into their necks. According to Zorin, grass snakes are completely harmless, and no medical assistance is needed after encountering one.
The veterinarian also highlighted that vipers are frequently confused with slow worms (legless lizards). Zorin explained that they can be distinguished from dangerous snakes by several characteristics. Slow worms blink and have a tail that is longer than their body. The expert emphasized that legless lizards are listed in regional red books.
Zorin advises that when encountering any reptile, it’s best to avoid touching or approaching them.
