Hooded Malpolon
Malpolon monspessulanus
A large, fast rear-fanged snake of the western Mediterranean known for its hood-like defensive display, closely related to the Eastern Montpellier snake.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-2.0 m (4-6.6 ft)
- Range
- Southwestern Europe and North Africa
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Overview
The hooded Malpolon, more commonly known as the Montpellier snake, is one of the largest snakes in Europe and North Africa. It is the western counterpart to the Eastern Montpellier snake and shares its dramatic defensive posture, from which the common name 'hooded' derives.
It is a rear-fanged, mildly venomous species whose venom is intended mainly for subduing prey. Bites to humans are uncommon and rarely of medical significance, though the species can be defensive when cornered.
How to identify it
- Large, powerfully built body with a long tail
- Adults typically gray, olive, or brownish, often appearing more uniform than juveniles
- Juveniles are patterned with dark blotches and a collar-like marking
- Large, protruding eyes with round pupils and prominent brow ridges
- Capable of flattening its neck into a hood-like shape when threatened
- Adults commonly reach 1.2-2.0 m
Habitat & range
Found in open scrubland, dry grassland, rocky hillsides, and vineyards across the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, and North Africa, typically in warm, sunny habitats.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and highly active, often seen basking in open, sunny areas. When threatened, it raises its forebody and flattens its neck in a cobra-like hooding display. It hunts lizards, small mammals, birds, and other snakes using mild venom delivered through rear fangs. Reproduction is oviparous, with females laying moderate clutches of eggs in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the hooded Malpolon venomous?
It is mildly venomous with rear fangs used mainly to subdue prey; bites to humans are uncommon and rarely medically significant.
Why does the hooded Malpolon flatten its neck?
It performs a hood-like defensive display, flattening its neck and raising its forebody to appear more intimidating.
How big does the hooded Malpolon get?
It is one of the largest snakes in its range, with adults typically reaching 1.2-2.0 m (4-6.6 ft).
Where is the hooded Malpolon found?
It occurs across the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, and North Africa.
Hooded Malpolon guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Hooded Malpolon.
