Biometrics
Length: it can reach 2,30 m.
Curiosities
The Montpellier snake populations present in Portugal belong to the subspecies Malpolon monspessulanus monspessulanus.
Due to its large eyes and the protrusion above them, fantastic stories were told in rural areas in which the Montpellier snake was able to hypnotize birds.
-
- Cobra-rateira (Malpolon monspessulanus)
Montpellier snake
(Malpolon monspessulanus)
Class Reptilia, Order Squamata, Suborder Serpentes, Family Psammophiidae
General description
The Montpellier snake is a large snake with a varied coloration. The color pattern is uniform throughout the body, with the exception of a black spot near the neck, and can vary between brown, greenish and grey tones, depending on its age. In females and juveniles, the color pattern is less uniform, with variations between black, white, grey, brown, and green for a camouflage effect. Its head is narrow and has a pointed snout, with large eyes and prominent supraocular scales (above the eyes).
Feeding
This species primarily feeds on rats and mice, however its diet may vary depending on its life stage. Juveniles prefer to feed on insects and geckos and adults feed on rodents, lizards, small birds, and other snake species. Large specimens of this species have also been recorded feeding on wild rabbit juveniles and adult lizards.
Behavior
This snake is mostly active during the day, although in very hot periods during the summer it may exhibit some twilight activity. In the southernmost areas of its distribution, it has a period of hibernation or estivation. This is a very agile snake, moving quickly with the ability to climb trees in order to look for food or simply to warm up in the sun. It uses its keen sight as its main sense for hunting. In general, it is a harmless species which only becomes aggressive when threatened, although it prefers to flee if possible. If it feels threatened, the Montpellier snake raises the front part of its body, hisses, and can bite. However, its bite is not very dangerous for people, as most of the time it’s just a warning bite and it does not inject venom.
In Portugal
The Montpellier snake is one of the most common snakes in Portugal and can be seen throughout most of the country. It is most active from spring to autumn, being easier to spot on hot, sunny days. It prefers to inhabit dry places with rocks and shrubs, but can occur in a wide variety of habitats. It can be seen in agricultural areas, bushes, forests, gardens and ruins. Because it is a common species, it suffers from threats such as being run over in traffic and being exterminated by humans.