THE 9 MAIN SNAKE SPECIES OF CYPRUS
The nine main snake species in Cyprus are all considered beneficially important to the ecosystem of the island. This is because they help to control the numbers of rodents and pests, which helps to maintain a natural balance, mainly in rural areas. These snakes are protected under Cypriot law, as a result.
A LIST OF CYPRUS SNAKES
Blunt-Nosed Viper: (Macrovipera lebetina lebetina) Known locally as Ochia, Fina, or Kontonoura, it is the only highly venomous snake in Cyprus. Also known as the Levantine Viper, it can reach up to 1.5 metres in size, and hunts by lying in a state of camouflage, striking its prey fast. Although it poses a threat to humans, it will only attack if threatened or accidentally stepped on, and all Cyprus hospitals stock an effective anti-venom. The BLUNT-NOSED VIPER inhabits rocky gorges, river valleys, and some agricultural areas.
Montpellier Snake: (Malpolon insignitus) This large snake is found in a variety of habitats across the island. Although mildly venomous, this snake poses no serious threat to humans. This snake feeds on various lizards, birds, and small mammals.
Cyprus Cat Snake: (Telescopus fallax cyprianus) A small, mildly venomous snake that is generally nocturnal. This snake, known for its cat-like eyes, is light grey with darker patches in colour, and mostly feeds on small rodents and birds.
Cyprus Whip Snake: (Hierophis cypriensis) is one of the two species native to Cyprus. This fast-moving snake is found in a variety of habitats across the island, although it primarily inhabits rocky and woodland habitats near water. This snake, which can grow up to 1 metre in length, resembles juvenile Large Whip Snakes so much that it was only recently defined as a separate species. Generally dark brown or black in colour, this non-venomous snake primarily hunts other snakes, small mammals, Lizards, birds, amphibians and large insects using constriction. The CYPRUS WHIP SNAKE is an avid climber, so it is often found in high areas or treelines. This extremely agile snake is also very important to the local ecosystem because it hunts the BLUNT-NOSED VIPER. It can also easily climb vertically, so is adept at climbing over walls and up trees at speed. In light of this, it is often found in trees raiding nests for nestlings and eggs. This snake can be aggressive and will attack humans if provoked.
Large Whip Snake: (Dolichophis jugularis) As the most common snake in Cyprus, the Large Whip Snake, also known as the Black Whip Snake, is largely found in all areas across the island. With its long body measuring up to three metres, it remains Europe’s longest snake. This very long, slender, fast-moving non-venomous snake is generally Black, dark brown, or dark grey in colour. Juvenile Large Whip snakes, however, tend to be lighter in colour than the adults. This non-venomous snake is very important to the local ecosystem because it hunts other snakes, small mammals, Lizards, birds, and large insects using constriction. This fast-moving predator can also climb vertically, so is adept at climbing over walls and up trees at speed. In light of this, it is often found climbing trees to raid nests for nestlings and eggs. This snake generally avoids human contact, and if encountered, its first instinct is to flee the scene as quickly as it can.
Cyprus Coin Snake: (Hemorrhois nummifer) Often mistaken for the larger viper due to its markings, this non-venomous snake is also known as the Ravergier’s whip snake.
Cyprus Grass Snake: (Natrix natrix cypriaca) This non-venomous snake is commonly found in wetland areas. Known locally as Nerofido, this snake mainly feeds on fish, frogs, and other small animals.
Cyprus False Smooth Snake: (Macroprotodon cucullatus) This small, non-venomous snake is found in rocky areas and mainly feeds on lizards and insects. Although it does possess venom, this rear-fanged colubrid is not considered dangerous to humans.
Pink Worm Snake (Typhlops vermicularis) A tiny, burrowing, non-venomous snake that resembles a large worm.
KEY INFORMATION
Normal Snake Behaviours: Most snake species in Cyprus are mainly active during spring and autumn. During this time, they normally remain in their natural habitats, which mostly include overgrown rural or rocky areas. Some non-venomous species, however, have been known to venture into inhabited areas, mainly during the night in search of water or prey.
General Rules When Encountering A Snake: A snake will rarely attack a human, but will defend itself if it is provoked or feels threatened. A good policy is to leave a snake alone if it is discovered. Snakes will generally leave of their own accord once they sense human activity.
Most Dangerous Snake: The Blunt-nosed Viper is the only snake on the island that poses a serious risk to humans. The Montpellier, Cyprus False Smooth Snake, and Cyprus Cat Snake also have a mild, non-lethal venom.
Most Common Snake: The Black Whip Snake is the most common snake species found in Cyprus.
Endemic Species: The Cyprus Whip Snake and the Cyprus Grass Snake are both unique to the island.
