Vipera ammodytes is a venomous viper species found in southern Europe through to the Balkans and parts of the Middle East. It is reputed to be the most dangerous of the European vipers due to its large size, long fangs (up to 13 mm) and high venom toxicity. The specific name is derived from the Greek words ammos and dutes, meaning "sand" and "burrower" or "diver"; not a very good name for an animal that actually prefers...
