Posted by Overview & Risks for Humans
Italy is home to around 17 different snake species. Unlike countries such as Greece, Spain, or the Balkans, only a few snakes in Italy are dangerous to humans. Serious incidents are extremely rare. The most relevant species are the Asp Viper and the Horned Viper (Sand Viper).
Tip: When hiking in remote areas, wear sturdy shoes and avoid reaching into rock crevices or under stones.
Venomous Snakes in Italy
1. Horned Viper (Vipera ammodytes) – Europe’s Most Venomous Snake
Also known as the Horned Viper, it is Italy’s most dangerous snake. Found in northeastern Italy and Alpine regions.
- Length: 50–80 cm
- Habitat: Dry, rocky areas
- Active: Daytime and evening
- Danger: Highly venomous – seek immediate medical help if bitten
2. Asp Viper (Vipera aspis)
Widespread across Italy including Tuscany, Piedmont, Liguria, and Sicily. Less venomous than the Horned Viper.
- Length: approx. 60 cm
- Habitat: Hills, open forests, up to 2000 m altitude
- Active: Mostly daytime
- Notes: Hunts small mammals and birds
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3. Common European Adder (Vipera berus)
Found only in northern Italy. Dangerous mainly for children or weakened people.
- Length: 50–70 cm
- Identification: Zigzag pattern on the back
- Habitat: Cool, moist areas
4. Meadow Viper (Vipera ursinii)
Small and rare, found only in parts of central Italy. Despite strong venom, bite quantity is low, making it less dangerous.
- Length: 30–50 cm
- Notes: Rare, endangered
5. Montpellier Snake (Malpolon monspessulanus)
Slightly venomous but generally harmless. Found in northwestern Italy.
- Length: Up to 2 m
- Notes: Shy, bites only in rare situations
6. Hooded Snake (Macroprotodon cucullatus)
Possibly found on Lampedusa. Mildly venomous, harmless to humans.
Non-Venomous Snakes in Italy
1. Grass Snake (Natrix natrix)
- Distribution: Almost all of Italy
- Habitat: Near water bodies
- Diet: Frogs, toads, small fish
- Identification: Two pale neck spots, gray to olive green
2. Dice Snake (Natrix tessellata)
- Distribution: Italian mainland (not Sicily or Sardinia)
- Habitat: Rivers and lakes
- Notes: Excellent swimmer
3. Smooth Snake (Coronella austriaca)
- Distribution: Almost all of Italy and Sicily (not Apulia or Sardinia)
- Habitat: Dry bushes, forest edges
- Identification: Dark longitudinal stripe behind the eye
4. Aesculapian Snake (Zamenis longissimus / Zamenis lineatus)
- Distribution: Northern Italy (Z. longissimus), Southern Italy & Sicily (Z. lineatus)
- Length: Up to 2 m
- Notes: Symbol of medicine (Rod of Asclepius)
5. Four-Lined Snake (Elaphe quatuorlineata)
- Distribution: Central & Southern Italy
- Habitat: Open landscapes, olive groves, farms
- Identification: Four dark stripes along the body
6. Green Whip Snake (Hierophis viridiflavus)
- Distribution: Almost all of Italy, including Sardinia & Sicily
- Color: Black and yellow, spotted or striped
- Notes: Very active, may bite when threatened, but harmless
7. Leopard Snake (Zamenis situla)
- Distribution: Southern Italy, Calabria, Sicily
- Habitat: Rocky, dry areas
- Notes: Rare and endangered, brightly colored
8. Gironde Smooth Snake (Coronella girondica)
- Distribution: Northern and Central Italy (not in Alps)
- Habitat: Rocky hills and dry terrain
9. Horseshoe Snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis)
- Distribution: Sardinia, possibly Lampedusa
- Origin: Typically from Spain and North Africa
10. Viperine Snake (Natrix maura)
- Distribution: Mainly Sardinia, rarely on mainland
- Identification: Zigzag pattern similar to the common adder
Conclusion
Italy is not a country with high snake risks. Only a few species are venomous, and encounters are rare. For nature lovers, observing snakes can even be an exciting experience.