The Western Whip Snake is the largest snake out of the four species found on the Maltese islands, and the most prevalent. The snake is called ‘Serp Iswed’ in Maltese, due to the black colour of the snake when it reaches maturity.

One can find this snake on most Mediterranean islands, in all types of habitats, however it shows a preference for dry and quiet places such as in rubble walls or along the sides of valleys.

Like all snakes in Malta, the Western Whip Snake is not venomous. Despite being skilled hunters, these snakes usually fear human presence, but like most other animals, may attack if provoked. Their prey usually consists of other reptiles and small mammals, including lizards and their eggs, mice, shrews, other smaller snakes, frogs and large insects.

When the mating season begins in May, one may spot an aggressive fight between two males of this species or an impressive ‘dance’ with two snakes intertwined during copulation.

Like all native snakes, the Western Whip Snake has been protected in Malta since 1992, and currently enjoys a favourable population status, so keep your eyes peeled for these shy creatures!

Have you ever seen a Western Whip Snake?