It’s Snake Activity Season, Don’t Run Them Over – Endemic and Threatened Species Protection Foundation

The Endemic and Threatened Species Protection Foundation urges: “Dear drivers, be attentive on the roads, it’s snake activity season; don’t run them over.”

During this autumn period, seasonal activity is observed in venomous snakes due to their altitudinal distribution and physiological characteristics. For reptiles, autumn marks the transition into hibernation. Unfortunately, they come onto the roads to warm up and often fall victim to vehicle tires, such as this one: the Armenian Viper, also known as the Radday’s Viper.

This species can grow up to 120 cm in length and lives in the rocky, steep slopes of mountains and valleys, sparse oak forests, and mountainous steppes. In Armenia, it is found only in high-altitude mountain areas, typically at elevations of 1700-2100 meters.

They emerge from their winter shelters around mid-April when the air temperature reaches 16-17°C. In spring, they gather in groups near their winter shelters. Until mid-June, they remain in hibernation areas, close to cliffs, rocks, small caves, and the roots of trees. They then spread out into the environment. During the hot months, they are most commonly seen in the mornings and evenings, and in September and October, they start to regroup near their winter shelters. They will begin hibernation again in early November.