Montpellier Snake
Malpolon monspessulanus
A large, fast-moving rear-fanged colubrid of the Mediterranean, notable for its prominent brow ridges and defensive hood display.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-2.0 m (4-6.6 ft)
- Range
- Mediterranean Europe and North Africa
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Overview
The Montpellier Snake is one of the largest snakes in Europe, found throughout the Mediterranean basin and North Africa. It is a rear-fanged colubrid with venom that, while mild by comparison to front-fanged venomous snakes, has occasionally caused notable symptoms in humans following prolonged bites, making it a species of some medical relevance in its range.
It is known for its raised brow ridges giving it a distinctive, almost stern facial expression, and for a dramatic defensive display in which it can flatten its neck.
How to identify it
- Large, robust body with smooth scales
- Coloration ranges from grayish-brown to olive, often more uniform in adults; juveniles more patterned
- Distinctive raised supraocular (brow) scales giving a stern facial appearance
- Round pupils
- Adults can exceed 2 meters, among the largest snakes in Europe
The combination of large size, prominent brow ridges, and generally plain adult coloration helps distinguish it from other Mediterranean colubrids.
Habitat & range
Found in dry, open habitats including scrubland, rocky hillsides, olive groves, and semi-arid terrain across the Iberian Peninsula, southern France, Italy, and North Africa. Tolerates disturbed and agricultural landscapes.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and fast-moving, often seen basking or actively foraging in open terrain. Feeds on lizards, small mammals, birds, and other snakes, using mildly venomous rear fangs to help subdue prey. When threatened, it may raise its head, flatten its neck, and hiss loudly before fleeing. Reproduction is egg-laying (oviparous), with moderate clutch sizes.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Montpellier Snake venomous?
Yes, it is mildly venomous with rear fangs, and prolonged bites have occasionally caused notable symptoms in humans, though serious effects are uncommon.
How big does the Montpellier Snake get?
It is one of the largest European snakes, with adults commonly exceeding 1.5 to 2 meters.
Where is the Montpellier Snake found?
It occurs throughout the Mediterranean basin, including Spain, southern France, Italy, and North Africa.
What does the Montpellier Snake eat?
It feeds on lizards, small mammals, birds, and other snakes.
Montpellier Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Montpellier Snake.
