Adder  (Vipera berus)

Species information

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Learn about the scientific name of this species and how it fits into the tree of life at Nature Navigator.

Authentication

This information is awaiting authentication by a species expert, and will be updated as soon as possible. If you are able to help please contact: arkive@wildscreen.org.uk

Glossary

  • Hibernacula: sites where hibernation (A winter survival strategy in which an animal’s metabolic rate slows down and a state of deep sleep is attained) takes place.
  • Hibernation: a winter survival strategy characteristic of some mammals in which an animal’s metabolic rate slows down and a state of deep sleep is attained. Whilst hibernating, animals survive on stored reserves of fat that they have accumulated in summer. In insects, the correct term for hibernation is ‘diapause’, a temporary pause in development and growth. Any stage of the lifecycle (eggs, larvae, pupae or adults) may enter diapause, which is typically associated with winter.
  • Viviparous: giving birth to live young.

References

  1. National Biodiversity Network Species Dictionary (September 2003): http://www.nhm.ac.uk/nbn/
  2. Arnold, E.N. & Burton, J.A. (1978) A field guide to the reptiles and amphibians of Britain and Europe. Collins, London.
  3. Beebee, T. & Griffiths, R. (2000) Amphibians and reptiles: a natural history of the British herpetofauna. Harper Collins Publishers Ltd., London.
  4. Buczaki, S. (2002) Fauna Britannica. Hamlyn, London.
  5. Cheshire Wildlife Trust. A Local Biodiversity Action Plan for the adder (September 2003): http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/cheshire/adderbap.htm
  6. The Herpetological Conservation Trust (October, 2003): http://www.hcontrst.force9.co.uk/
  7. Reptiles and amphibians of the UK (October 2003): http://www.herpetofauna.co.uk/Adder.htm
  8. Species Action Plan for adder (September 2003): http://www.geocities.com/braguk/adderactionp1.html
  9. Reptile Trust (September 2003): http://www.reptileallsorts.com/reptiletrust.htm
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