Snakes are present across Italy’s diverse landscapes, from coastal plains to mountains, providing suitable habitats for numerous species. Italy hosts a variety of snake species, both non-venomous and venomous, each playing a role in local ecosystems.
Non-Venomous Snakes of Italy
Italy is home to many non-venomous snake species, which are harmless to humans and contribute to the ecological balance. Among the most commonly encountered are the Grass Snake, Aesculapian Snake, and Green Whip Snake.
Grass Snake
The Grass Snake (Natrix natrix or Natrix helvetica) is typically olive-green, brown, or grey, often featuring a distinctive yellow or whitish collar behind its head. These semi-aquatic snakes are frequently found near water bodies like ponds, streams, and lakes, where they primarily prey on amphibians and fish. Grass Snakes are widespread across the Italian peninsula and islands.
Aesculapian Snake
The Aesculapian Snake (Zamenis longissimus) is a slender species that can reach lengths of up to 2 meters. Its coloration varies, often appearing olive-yellow or brownish-green, with smooth scales giving it a subtle sheen. These snakes inhabit temperate forests, shrublands, and rural gardens, frequently climbing trees and walls in search of prey like small mammals and birds. A similar species, the Italian Aesculapian Snake (Zamenis lineatus), is endemic to southern Italy and Sicily, characterized by a yellowish-brown body that may have four dark stripes and red eyes.
Green Whip Snake
The Green Whip Snake (Hierophis viridiflavus), also known as the “Biacco” in Italy, is an agile and fast-moving species. Its coloration is typically a striking mix of yellow-green and black, though some individuals in southern Italy and Sicily can be entirely black. This snake thrives in a variety of habitats, including open forests, scrublands, and rural areas, often found basking on rocks or in thorny bushes. Green Whip Snakes are diurnal hunters, preying on lizards, small mammals, and other snakes.
Venomous Snakes of Italy
The venomous snakes found in Italy belong exclusively to the viper family (Viperidae), distinguishing them from non-venomous species. Four main viper species are present: the Asp Viper, Common Adder, Nose-horned Viper, and Orsini’s Viper. Vipers possess a triangular-shaped head, vertical pupils, and a more robust body compared to non-venomous snakes. Unlike many non-venomous snakes, vipers have hinged fangs at the front of their mouths to deliver venom.
Asp Viper
The Asp Viper (Vipera aspis) is the most widespread venomous snake in Italy, found across most regions except Sardinia. It is responsible for the majority of snakebites in the country. Asp Vipers are relatively small, usually under 80 cm in length, with coloration varying from light grey to reddish-brown, often displaying irregular dark patterns. They prefer warm, sunny areas such as rocky hills, scrublands, and forest clearings, where they hunt small mammals and birds.
Common Adder
The Common Adder (Vipera berus), also known as the European Viper, is found in northern and central Italy. This species is characterized by a distinctive zigzag pattern along its back. Common Adders inhabit diverse environments, including forests, meadows, and rocky areas, and can be found at various altitudes. While their venom can cause pain and swelling, bites are rarely fatal, and these snakes are not considered highly aggressive.
Nose-horned Viper
The Nose-horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes) is primarily found in northeastern Italy. Its most distinguishing feature is a fleshy, horn-like appendage at the tip of its snout. This viper can grow up to 90 cm and has a variable coloration, often with a dark zigzag pattern on its back. It prefers dry, rocky terrains and slopes. Although its venom is considered potent among Italian vipers, the snake is generally shy and tends to flee from danger.
Orsini’s Viper
Orsini’s Viper (Vipera ursinii), also known as the Meadow Viper, is a rare species found in specific areas of the central Apennines. It is smaller than other vipers, typically less than 50 cm, and is considered the least dangerous among Italy’s venomous snakes. This viper has a coloration that varies from grey to brown with darker patterns. Orsini’s Vipers inhabit meadows and grasslands, and despite their small size, they can be defensive when threatened.
Understanding Snake Behavior
Snakes in Italy, whether venomous or non-venomous, generally exhibit shy and reclusive behaviors. They typically avoid human contact and prefer to remain concealed in their natural habitats. Most snakes are ambush predators, and attacking is an energy-intensive behavior they prefer to avoid. If a snake feels threatened or is accidentally disturbed, such as being stepped on, it may react defensively.
Bites, when they occur, are almost always a defensive response. Snakes are not inherently aggressive towards humans; they bite to protect themselves when they perceive a direct threat or are cornered. Observing snakes from a distance and allowing them to move away naturally is the safest approach during an encounter. It is important to avoid attempting to approach, provoke, or handle any snake. Many Italian snake species, including all vipers, are protected by law, emphasizing the importance of respecting their presence in the environment.