A VENOMOUS SNAKE
ENDEMIC TO CYPRUS
The Cyprus blunt Nosed Viper (Macrovipera lebetinus), as the name suggests is a venomous viper that is endemic to Cyprus. Its distinct blunt nose, along with its striking appearance, sets it apart from other viper species in the Mediterranean and it exhibits a fascinating blend of traits that contribute to its survival in its harsh environment.Â
INTRIGUING BEHAVIOUR
The snake has some intriguing behavioural patterns, especially when threatened. Despite its venomous nature, it is generally a reclusive reptile, often opting to retreat rather than confront a potential threat. When threatened, it usually assumes a defensive posture, coiling its body whilst hissing and vibrating its tail. It tends to avoid the scorching heat of the day, so is primarily nocturnal. The snake is most active during the twilight hours seeking its prey under the cover of darkness, when temperatures are more favourable.Â
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DISTINCTIVE FEATURES
One of its most distinctive features of this snake is its physical appearance. The snake has a robust body that can grow up to 180cm and its distinctive markings are a remarkable array of symmetry and colour. This snake has a thick body with a large, wide, triangular head and the colouration of the snake can vary, but its dorsal side usually consists of a mix of earthy tones, ranging between various sandy shades. Its scales usually comprise of a textured, rough quality that often has a distinctive pattern of dark red to dark brown, which is set against its lighter sand colourations, allowing the snake to seamlessly blend in with its natural rocky and arid habitat. The habitat of the Cyprus Blunt Nosed Viper is predominantly rocky, arid terrain, which includes scrublands, rocky outcrops, and dry grassy areas. The snake is also known to inhabit coastal areas and agricultural land sometimes crossing paths with farm workers. These snakes, as most vipers, are generally elusive however, and will not attack unless provoked or threatened. In spite of this, up to 20 attacks on humans on average are registered in Cyprus every year.
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A SKILLED AMBUSH PREDATORÂ
The snake’s size, as well as its prowess as a skilled ambush predator, makes it a formidable adversary to various small rodents, mammals, birds, and lizards. The snake generally lies in wait and uses its rapid strike rate to administer its potent venom, taking just seconds to subdue its prey. The viper’s venom is a subject of great interest and importance scientifically and its composition contains a complex mixture of enzymes, peptides, and proteins that can cause a range of different reactions for different animals. The venom is a neurotoxin that is known to cause tissue damage and blood coagulation and underscores the viper’s role as an apex predator. Despite this however, the Blunt Nosed Viper has a worthy adversary in the form of the Cyprus Whip Snake, which is another snake species endemic to the island. The Cyprus Whip Snake is cannibalistic and avidly hunts the Blunt Nosed ViperÂ
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CONSERVATION
The Cyprus Blunt Nosed Viper has captivated the attention of both researchers, conservationists and reptile enthusiasts, who have all identified the serpent as a fascinating and ecologically important species. It is also acknowledged that the viper plays a crucial role in maintaining the balance of the island’s ecosystem, helping to control rodent populations. In spite of this however, it still faces several threats, which include habitat loss, human persecution, and road mortality. As a result, initiatives aimed at preserving its habitat, as well as a program of public education that promotes understanding and respecting these creatures, and responsible land use are underway and they are all aimed at ensuring the continued existence of this unique species of snake.
