Dis ist vonden Louwen

[Oocephalus]

"Berslange" is apparently originally the common European adder (Vipera berus). The Latin name "berus" is first documented in the work of Albertus Magnus, and is probably derived from the Germanic root of the verb "to bear" (gebären in German), because the snake bears living young. See You are not allowed to view links. Register or Login to view. (in German). The illustrator apparently did not know the real meaning of the name, and interpreted it as a bear-like "serpent". Note that Megenberg classifies all reptiles and amphibians (and even some arthropods such as the scorpion) as serpents, whether they have legs or not.