Nose-horned Viper

poskok · Vipera ammodytes

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The most venomous snake in Bosnia & Herzegovina and the wider Balkans, named for the soft horn on its snout. It favours dry, rocky, sun-warmed slopes — especially across Herzegovina's karst — and is shy, biting only when cornered.

Identification & best seen

Up to ~90 cm; grey/brown with a bold dark zig-zag down the back and a small upturned nose-horn; spring–autumn, basking on rocks.

Habitat & where to see

Dry rocky slopes, karst, stone walls and scree, mostly in Herzegovina and the south.

Fun fact

Despite its fearsome reputation, it almost always flees; most bites happen when it is stepped on or handled.