Snakes are present across Europe, inhabiting diverse environments from northern reaches to the Mediterranean. The continent hosts a variety of snake species, both non-venomous and venomous. Understanding their behaviors can help in safely coexisting with these reptiles.
Diversity of European Snakes
Among the non-venomous snakes, the grass snake (Natrix natrix) is commonly found, notable for its olive-green to brownish coloration and a distinctive yellow or cream collar behind its head. Grass snakes can reach up to 1.5 meters and are often found near water bodies, hunting amphibians. The Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) can grow to about 2 meters, making it one of Europe’s largest snakes. It has a plain brown, yellowish, or olive color and is known for its climbing ability, often found in forested areas.
Venomous snakes in Europe are primarily vipers of the Vipera genus. The common European adder (Vipera berus) is one of the most widespread venomous snakes, found across much of Europe, including Great Britain. Adders have a stout body, measuring 60 to 80 cm, and are recognized by a distinct zigzag pattern along their back and a V or X-shaped mark on their triangular head. Another venomous species is the asp viper (Vipera aspis), mainly found in Southwestern Europe, including France, Spain, Italy, and Switzerland. Asp vipers are smaller, averaging 60-65 cm, and possess a distinctive upturned snout.
Where European Snakes Are Found
Snakes in Europe are not uniformly distributed; their presence varies significantly based on regional climates and habitat types. Certain areas, such as Iceland and Ireland, are notably snake-free due to their cold climates and isolation. Great Britain, for example, is home to only three native snake species: the common European adder, the grass snake, and the smooth snake.
Snakes inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, heathlands, rocky areas, and wetlands. Some species, like the grass snake, have a strong affinity for wetland habitats and are often found near ponds, lakes, and rivers, as their diet consists primarily of amphibians. Aesculapian snakes prefer forested areas, particularly those that are warm but not excessively hot, and can also be found in cultivated landscapes and near human dwellings. Vipers, such as the common European adder, adapt to diverse environments, including woodlands, heathlands, moorlands, and even areas above the Arctic Circle, making them the most northerly-occurring snake species globally. They often seek shelter in animal burrows, hollow tree stumps, rock crevices, or haystacks.
Are European Snakes Dangerous?
While venomous snakes exist in Europe, encounters are infrequent, and serious incidents are rare. Most European snakes are harmless, and even bites from venomous species are seldom fatal to humans. The primary venomous snakes are vipers, and their bites are defensive reactions rather than aggressive attacks. Bites occur when a snake feels threatened, such as when accidentally stepped on, provoked, or handled.
Viper venom contains a complex mixture of compounds that can cause various effects, including local tissue damage. Common symptoms of a viper bite include immediate intense local pain, swelling (edema), and discoloration (ecchymosis) around the bite site, which can spread to the entire affected limb. Two distinct fang marks, spaced about 6 to 8 mm apart, may be visible.
Systemic symptoms like nausea, vomiting, muscle pain, and diarrhea are less common but can occur in more severe cases. Although rare, life-threatening reactions such as anaphylaxis can also develop. Children and the elderly are more susceptible to severe reactions due to their lower body weight.
If a snake bite occurs, remain calm and seek medical attention immediately. Immobilize the bitten limb and keep the affected person calm and still to help slow the spread of any venom. Remove any rings, watches, or tight clothing near the bite area before swelling begins. Transport the person to a hospital or medical facility as quickly as possible.
Avoid traditional remedies, such as cutting the wound, attempting to suck out venom, or applying ice or tourniquets, as these methods can cause more harm and delay proper medical care. Taking a picture of the snake from a safe distance, if possible, can assist medical professionals in identifying the species and determining the appropriate treatment.