False Smooth Snake
Macroprotodon cucullatus
A small, secretive rear-fanged colubrid found around the Mediterranean basin, resembling true smooth snakes but bearing a mild venom used to subdue small prey.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- North Africa, southern Europe, and parts of the Middle East
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Overview
The false smooth snake is a small, inconspicuous rear-fanged snake found across the Mediterranean region, from North Africa into southern Europe and parts of the Levant. Its common name reflects its superficial resemblance to true smooth snakes of the genus Coronella.
It possesses mild venom delivered through rear fangs, used primarily to subdue small reptile prey, and is not considered dangerous to humans, with bites causing at most minor local effects.
How to identify it
- Grayish, brownish, or reddish-tan coloration, often with a dark collar or nape marking
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Compact, cylindrical body with a small, only slightly distinct head
- Round pupils
- Adults generally 30-50 cm long
Distinguished from true smooth snakes by subtle head shape and scale differences, as well as its rear-fanged dentition, though this requires close examination.
Habitat & range
Found in dry scrubland, rocky hillsides, agricultural margins, and open woodland across North Africa (Morocco to Libya and Egypt), southern Europe (parts of Spain, Portugal, Italy, and Mediterranean islands), and into the Levant and parts of the Middle East. Often shelters under rocks, logs, or debris.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal or crepuscular and highly secretive, spending much of the day hidden under cover. Feeds mainly on small lizards, which it subdues with mild venom delivered through enlarged rear teeth. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying small clutches of eggs during the warmer months.
Frequently asked questions
Is the false smooth snake venomous?
It has mild rear-fang venom used to subdue small prey, but it poses no significant danger to humans.
How does the false smooth snake differ from the true smooth snake?
The two look similar, but the false smooth snake is rear-fanged and has subtle differences in head shape and scalation.
Where is the false smooth snake found?
It ranges across North Africa, southern Europe, and parts of the Middle East.
What does the false smooth snake eat?
It feeds primarily on small lizards, which its mild venom helps to subdue.
False Smooth Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding False Smooth Snake.
