Hi! I'm form Portugal and I want to observe (and photograph) Vipera seoanei (the only reptile from continental Portugal that I've never seen). I'm going to northern Portugal on May 7th. The temperature in that area will be around 20 or 25ºC during the day. Is it a good temperature to see them? People say that vipers are easier to see during overcast days. Why? Is that because they are usually ambush feeders and when it's sunny they hide in the shadows?
How should I search for this species? Many people find them in the "artificial meadows" with stone walls (called "lameiros" in Portugal), along the base of the stone walls, but they can also be found in meadows with small bushes. Should I look for them in the bushes too?

And what's the best way to photograph them? Will they stay in the same place if I approach slowly? Is it easy to "transport" them with a snake hook to a more open place so I can photograph them or will they flee to the stone walls?

If I photograph a Vipera seoanei I'll post a Field Report here!


Thanks in advance!

Marco Caetano