Meadow viper (male)
Source: R Podloucky
This viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis) is a particularly distinct subspecies and has become one of the most endangered reptiles in Europe, now restricted to only two areas in Hungary and Slovakia (Map 9.19) (Stumpel et al, 1992). Recently it has become extinct in Romania, and probably in Austria. This small, harmless viper has a two-year reproduction cycle and the females produce 220 young. It feeds predominantly on large invertebrates, especially crickets and grasshoppers, but lizards, frogs and nestling rodents are also taken. Being entirely restricted to lowland with sandy habitats of alluvial meadows and pusztas in Central Europe, the species requires wet and dry habitats in close proximity. Such habitats, which also support diverse communities of invertebrates, lizards and frogs, are threatened by drainage and subsequent use for arable farming, vineyards, forestry and tourism. The last remaining sites are exposed to the application of fertilisers and pesticides, too-frequent mechanical mowing, collection for museums and private use, rearing of game birds, grazing and grubbing by geese and pigs. The relict meadow habitats of the Great Plain pusztas to the south of Budapest support the last remaining individuals of this species found in the wild. Their survival depends upon protecting this habitat against agricultural reclamation. The restoration of degraded habitat sites and the development of new ones is required to ensure the long-term survival of the species. Map 9.19 - Changes in the distribution of the meadow viper (Vipera ursinii rakosiensis) Source: A Stumpel, personal communication
Source: A Stumpel, personal communication