The Cyclades blunt-nosed viper Macrovipera schweizeri is a venomous snake found only on four small islands off the coast of Greece. It is arguably the rarest snake in Europe. The snakes are endemic to the islands of Milos, Kimolos, Polyaigos (Polinos) and Siphnos in the western Cyclades off the coast of Greece. More than half of the species’ total population is found on western Milos.
The population probably totals around 3,000 individuals, with about 2,500 of these on western Milos. Subspecies syphnoensis (from island of Syphnos) is very rare, with only occasional specimens recorded. The population is now more or less stable, but over the last 30-40 years there have been significant declines as a result of collecting and road kills.
Body colouration ranges from a pale, ivory white through ochre colours to a dark grey, and the skin is patterned by transverse rows of blotchy dark stripes . This snake belongs to the large true vipers of the Viperidae family, and occasionally reaches lengths of up to 90 to 110 cm. Snakes of the Viperidae family typically have broad triangular-shaped heads and heavy bodies. They also have long hinged fangs through which they inject venom into their victims; the venom of the Cyclades blunt-nosed viper is very potent and dangerous.
The Cyclades blunt-nosed viper is nocturnal from early summer until mid-September, and more diurnal during the rest of the year. Lizards and birds have been recorded in the diet in the wild, with juveniles feeding just on lizards and adults more on birds. These snakes also eat mice and insects in captivity, but no wild rodents are found in the western Cyclades (Milos, Kimolos, Polyaigos). Although predominantly ground-dwelling, this snake will climb trees to ambush birds. Hunting takes place near water pools during spring and in trees during autumn, following the migratory cycle and changing habitats used by the birds throughout the year.
The female reproductive cycle is biennial, with mating activity seemingly concentrated around mid-May, although it may extend to mid-August. The species isoviparous, with approximately 10 to 12 eggs being laid per clutch in captivity. Little else is known about the behavioural ecology of this snake in the wild.
The snakes prefer regions of dry, stony or rocky terrain, often on valley slopes, with small and large bushes, drained river valleys and brooks.
Last year a group of herpetologists shot the featured video.
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