The term “asp” is a common name for several distinct venomous snakes, not a single scientific classification. This lack of specificity can cause confusion about their nature and risks. Understanding which snakes are called “asps” and their characteristics is important for safety and accurate identification.
Identifying an Asp
The European Asp, scientifically known as Vipera aspis, is a viper species found across southwestern Europe, including France, Italy, Switzerland, Spain, and Germany. These snakes typically inhabit hilly and mountainous regions, as well as scrublands and woodlands exposed to sunlight. They belong to the Viperidae family, characterized by their hinged fangs.
Another snake frequently called an “asp” is the Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje). This highly venomous snake is widespread across North Africa, parts of East Africa, sub-Saharan Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. They thrive in diverse habitats like steppes, savannas, grasslands, and semi-desert areas, often near water. They belong to the Elapidae family.
A third species sometimes referred to as an “asp” is the Shield-nosed Cobra (Aspidelaps scutatus), native to southern Africa, including countries like South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. These snakes prefer sandy-soiled savannas and are known for their unique snout adapted for digging. It is also part of the Elapidae family.
Venom and Its Properties
Each snake possesses distinct venom properties. The European Asp (Vipera aspis) is venomous, and its venom is predominantly hemotoxic. It primarily affects blood and tissues, damaging blood vessels and causing internal bleeding, swelling, and potential tissue death. While rare, some cases have reported neurotoxic effects, such as drooping eyelids and difficulty breathing.
The Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje) is highly venomous, and its venom is primarily neurotoxic. Neurotoxins target the nervous system, interfering with nerve signals and muscle function. This can lead to paralysis and respiratory failure. The venom can also cause local tissue damage and blistering at the bite site.
The Shield-nosed Cobra (Aspidelaps scutatus) is also highly venomous, producing a venom that is both neurotoxic and mildly cytotoxic. Its neurotoxic components can cause neurological symptoms, while cytotoxic elements contribute to local swelling and potential tissue destruction. There is no specific antivenom for the Shield-nosed Cobra, but studies suggest polyvalent antivenom may offer some neutralization.
Symptoms of an Asp Bite
Bite symptoms vary significantly depending on the type of asp and the properties of its venom. A bite from a European Asp (Vipera aspis) causes immediate, sharp pain, followed by rapid swelling, bruising, and discoloration around the bite site. Tissue damage, including necrosis, can develop within hours. Systemic symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and diarrhea, with severe cases potentially leading to vision impairment, kidney failure, or cardiovascular collapse.
An Egyptian Cobra (Naja haje) bite causes moderate to severe local pain, swelling, and blistering. As the neurotoxic venom spreads, neurological symptoms can emerge, such as drooping eyelids (ptosis), slurred speech, and partial paralysis. Severe cases can lead to difficulty breathing, headaches, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, loss of consciousness, and respiratory arrest.
A Shield-nosed Cobra bite commonly causes local swelling and potential tissue damage due to cytotoxic effects. The neurotoxic components can cause symptoms like slurred speech, drooping eyelids, blurred vision, and partial paralysis. In rare but severe instances, respiratory distress may occur. The severity of symptoms for any snakebite can depend on factors like the amount of venom injected and the individual’s physiological response.
Safety and First Aid
Caution is important in areas where “asps” are found to prevent bites. Snakes often prefer dense vegetation, rocky outcrops, or areas near water. Avoid disturbing any snake in its natural habitat and give it ample space to retreat.
If a suspected venomous snakebite occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Call emergency services and remain calm. Remove any jewelry or tight clothing from the bitten limb to accommodate potential swelling. Gently wash the bite area with soap and water, then cover it loosely with a clean, dry bandage.
Keep the bitten limb still and in a neutral, comfortable position while awaiting medical help. Avoid certain actions after a snakebite, as they can worsen the outcome:
Do not apply a tourniquet, cut the wound, or attempt to suck out the venom.
Do not apply ice or submerge the limb in water.
Avoid consuming alcohol or caffeine.
Do not attempt to catch or kill the snake.