Viperine snake
The video of this viperine snake was produced by Mas de la Fontenette. This is a remarkable 6-person gite with private pool in the Ardèche, more specifically in the Ardèche gorges near Labastide-de-Virac. We look forward to welcoming you here for your next holiday in the Ardèche.
A very discreet animal
Sensitive to noise, it can detect you from a distance and flee immediately. Only garter snakes have a round pupil, which distinguishes them from vipers, which have a fine vertical pupil. This snake is completely harmless. The animal is oviparous, meaning it lays eggs. ALL European snakes are protected under the 1976 law. Any offender is liable to a fine of up to 1,000 euros.
The many uses of snakes
Snakes play an essential role in maintaining the balance of the natural environment. As hunters of small rodents, amphibians, fish and other reptiles, they are themselves the prey of numerous animal species such as chickens, guinea fowl, hedgehogs, certain birds of prey such as the short-toed eagle, herons, polecats and so on. At every stage of its development, there are many predators. So let’s protect them.
The viperine snake, a harmless snake
The viperine snake (Natrix maura), a non-venomous species, has a fascinating appearance and behaviour. Often confused with vipers because of its zigzag dorsal pattern and ability to flatten its head into a triangle when threatened, this snake defends itself mainly through intimidation.
Found in the Ardèche region, the viperine snake is particularly fond of aquatic environments such as rivers, ponds and marshes. An outstanding swimmer, it is often seen gliding gracefully through the water in search of prey. Its diet consists mainly of fish and amphibians, which it hunts with remarkable skill.
Averaging between 70 and 90 cm in length, but reaching up to 1 metre, the viperine snake has a coat of variable colour, ranging from grey to brown, dotted with dark patterns. These patterns, along with its defensive behaviour, are evolutionary strategies to deter predators, particularly birds of prey and mammals.
Viperine snake reproduction
Viperine snake reproduction takes place in spring, with mating events that are often spectacular, with several males vying for one female. The females then lay between 5 and 15 eggs in damp, well-protected places. Once hatched, the young snakes are immediately independent and must fend for themselves to find food and shelter.
Despite its intimidating appearance, the viperine snake is harmless to humans and plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. By regulating fish and amphibian populations, it helps to maintain the ecological balance of aquatic environments.
The viperine snake, a protected species
However, this species faces a number of threats, mainly due to the degradation of its habitat. Pollution of waterways, destruction of wetlands and urbanisation are all factors that have a negative impact on its population. In addition, the viperine snake suffers from a bad reputation and is unfairly persecuted through ignorance.
Awareness-raising and conservation efforts are needed to protect this fascinating species. By learning to recognise the viperine snake and understanding its role in nature, it is possible to coexist better with it and preserve local biodiversity.
In short, the viperine snake is a remarkable example of adaptation and survival in the aquatic environments of the Ardèche. Its presence testifies to the richness and complexity of the region’s ecosystems. It deserves to be protected and respected for the essential role it plays in the environment.
Holidays at Mas de la Fontenette
Mas de la Fontenette is a gite with swimming pool in the Ardèche, rated 4 stars by Gites de France. We highly recommend it. In the heart of the Ardèche gorges with swimming pool, wellness area (jacuzzi, sauna), boules pitch and table football, you can relax after your visits in a 2.5 hectare park.
