THE MILOS VIPER (MACROVIPERA SCHWEIZERI)

The Milos viper (Macrovipera schweizeri) is the most endangered reptile species in Greece and a flagship species of conservation concern within the European herpetofauna. Endemic to the western Cyclades islands, its distribution is restricted to Milos, Kimolos, Polyaigos and Sifnos. The species has evolved behavioural adaptations in response to the resource-limited insular environment, particularly in its exploitation of migratory birds as a key food resource. During the spring migration period, individuals employ ambush predation strategies at temporary pools that form within seasonal streambeds. In autumn, M. schweizeri exhibits a notable shift in foraging behaviour, frequently climbing shrubs and small trees to intercept passerine birds either during daylight hours or while the birds are roosting at night. As ambient temperatures rise in the summer months, the species becomes strictly nocturnal. It is the only European viper species that is oviparous, in contrast to other European vipers, which are ovoviviparous. The main threats to the species are anthropogenic, including habitat degradation and fragmentation due to mining activities, expansion of tourism infrastructure, road networks, illegal collection and direct persecution.