Reptiles
Montpellier Snake
Malpolon monspessulanus
On a stony hillside in southern Spain, a Montpellier snake rears its head above the thyme, its heavy brow ridges giving it a glare that is far more menacing than its mild venom deserves.
Overview
The Montpellier snake, Malpolon monspessulanus, is a Least Concern rear-fanged snake of dry scrub, rocky slopes, and sandy ground around the western Mediterranean. Its size, speed, and fierce expression make it one of the most impressive snakes of southern Europe.
A big snake with mild venom
The Montpellier snake’s venom is potent against lizards and small mammals, but it is delivered from the back of the mouth and is generally mild to people.
Status
Least Concern, widespread and common.
Montpellier Snake: common questions
Is the Montpellier snake dangerous to people?
It is rear-fanged and its venom is generally mild to people, though a bite should still be treated seriously.
How big is the Montpellier snake?
It grows to around 2 metres long, and occasionally more, making it one of the largest snakes in Europe.
Why does it look fierce?
It has prominent ridges above its eyes that give it a fierce, frowning look.
Where is the Montpellier snake found?
It lives in dry scrub, rocky slopes, and sandy ground around the western Mediterranean, including Iberia, southern France, and North Africa.