Observations sur l' ethologie et l'evolution d'une population de Vipera aspis (L.) au nord du Jura suisse.

Abstract

The annual cycle with its particular seasonal patterns of behaviour is similar to the one known from other habitats in plains and hills. A decrease of temperature and insolation during the years of observation is considered as a main reason for the interruption of reproduction and for the decrease of the number of adult vipers. Climatic influences may evoke drastic consequences for populations of the northern periphery of the viper's distribution and demonstrate the limits of ecological adaptation-capacity. -from English summary