Although the number of bites inflicted by adders is small, they cause widespread fear. As a result, hundreds of these reptiles are killed every year by frightened tourists. The common adder has a triangular head and vertical pupils. It can have various coloring, but its characteristic marking is a black zigzag on its back. It is often mistaken for the harmless grass snake.

An adder attacks reflexively when it has no opportunity to escape. The wound itself often goes unnoticed; two tiny “abrasions” of the epidermis soon begin to swell and hurt; shortness of breath and cyanosis appear. An adult, healthy person should survive such a bite without major complications, although bites to the face and neck may be dangerous because the venom can quickly spread through the bloodstream. They may pose a real threat to children's lives. Therefore, if a bite does occur, antitoxin should be administered quickly by injection. The venom is also dangerous for a person under the influence of alcohol.

Adders' favorite habitats are clearings, marshy forests, piles of stones on the boundary between fields and forests, especially in mountainous areas. Home rock gardens can be excellent breeding grounds for these reptiles, as gaps between the stones provide shelter, while sawdust and bark create good thermal conditions.

In Poland, the common adder is fairly common, but it occurs in greater numbers only in places where it finds a suitable habitat. Since 1986, it has been a protected species, like all Polish reptiles.

Basic safety rules:

  • do not walk barefoot in places where you may encounter an adder,
  • look carefully at where you are stepping
  • do not touch adders when you encounter them. Move away slowly and without panic
  • wear closed-toe footwear in forests and meadows
  • explain to children that adders must not be touched or provoked.

First aid for a bite

In the event of an adder bite, it is essential to call for medical help or go to the nearest medical facility. While waiting for medical assistance, immobilize the bitten limb and calm the injured person, trying to minimize their movements—the slightest unnecessary movement will only accelerate the spread of the toxin through the body. Remove the watch and jewelry from the hand immediately. Cover the wound with a sterile dressing. Position the injured person so that the bitten area is lower than the heart. Do not suck the wound or cut it with a knife. This may cause additional injuries and inflict further pain on the injured person. Ice and compression bandages must not be used either. If the bitten person loses consciousness, observe them carefully and check whether their circulation is maintained and whether they are breathing. Place an unconscious person in the recovery position on their side. If necessary, begin artificial respiration and cardiac massage. Once at the medical facility, inform the staff that an adder bite has occurred—antivenom must be administered as soon as possible.