Leopard snake

Description:

The Leopard Snake varies in colour from yellowish to ash-grey, and reaches lengths of up to 1m. It is characterised by a pattern of brownish-red spots having a thick black border and reddish eyes. 

Basic biology:

The diet of this species is comprised mainly of rodents. They are aggressive hunters, subduing their prey by biting it and constricting it between their coils. They are mainly active during the day, but may also be active at dusk. This species hibernates during the coldest weeks of the year then re-emerges in spring, during which time females lay around 2-7 eggs per clutch. 

Distribution in Malta:

This species inhabits rocky sites, mainly in urbanised areas such as industrial zones and public gardens. 

Global distribution:

Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Italy, Malta, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Turkey and Ukraine. 

Risk:

Aglyphous (non-venomous).

Condition:

Native.

Protection status:

• Protected by Annexes II and IV of the EU Habitats Directive.

• Protected by Appendix II of the Bern Convention. 

• Protected by Schedules II and V of Local Legislation 549.44. 

Map of confirmed presence:

There is currently insufficient data on the distribution of this species in the Maltese Islands. We invite you to submit any observations using the form provided here.