Vipera berus, commonly known as the common European adder, is a venomous snake found across Europe and parts of Asia. It typically inhabits a variety of environments, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands. This species is recognizable by its distinctive zigzag pattern along its back, which can vary in color from brown to gray or black. The common adder is relatively small, usually measuring between 60 to 90 centimeters in length. Its diet mainly consists of small mammals, birds, and amphibians. While its bite can be painful, it is rarely fatal to humans, making it an important part of the ecosystem as both predator and prey.