European aspic viper

The European aspic viper (Vipera aspis) is a venomous snake found in France, Switzerland, Spain, and Italy. These vipers typically reach lengths of up to 50 cm (20 inches) and inhabit diverse environments from sea level to high altitudes. Their diet consists of small vertebrates, and they give birth to litters of 5 to 16 young.1

The term "asp" historically referred to a venomous snake, possibly the Egyptian cobra, which was a symbol of royalty in ancient Egypt. While the European aspic viper is sometimes called an asp, it belongs to the viper family (Viperidae). Vipers are characterized by long, hollow fangs used to inject venom into their prey.12