Today marks International Snake Day, and while snakes often get a bad rap, it's the perfect time to shift the narrative – especially when it comes to Malta’s four native, harmless, and protected snakes.
In a post shared by the Wildlife Rescue Team, locals were reminded just how valuable these slithery creatures really are, and why we should be celebrating them, not fearing them.
Although other alien species have been introduced over time, Malta is home to four native snakes, all of which play a vital role in our ecosystem:
- Western Whipsnake (Is-Serp l-Iswed) – Coluber viridiflavus
- Leopard Snake (Il-Lifgħa) – Zamenis situla
- European Cat Snake (It-Teleskopu) – Telescopus fallax
- Algerian Whipsnake (Is-Serp l-Aħdar) – Hemorrhois algirus
These snakes are natural pest controllers, helping keep populations of mice, small rats, and insects in check. In a way, they’re doing us a big favour – no chemicals needed!
Aside from being functional, they’re also a sign of a healthy ecosystem. When snakes are around, it often means biodiversity is thriving.
Most fear of snakes comes from misinformation, movie myths, or even inherited fear. But the truth is that Maltese snakes are not venomous, and they will not attack unless provoked – in fact, they’d rather avoid us altogether!
So if you spot one, simply leave it alone and let it go about its business. If you do find a snake in your home, the Wildlife Rescue Team advises that you keep an eye on where it is, and call 9999 9505 for safe assistance.
Unfortunately, snakes face serious threats from habitat loss and the use of rodenticides, which kill their food sources. And although not everyone may like snakes, harming them is illegal and damaging to Malta’s ecosystem.
So, this International Snake Day, let’s show a little appreciation for our four native species, help spread awareness, and work to preserve their role in our local environment.
Have you ever spotted any of these beauties?