Snakes

[shanagarry]

Does anybody know their snakes?

While walking the dog on Christmas Eve we came upon a large (roughly a metre in length) and dark brown in colour lying in the early afternoon sunshine. As we approached it raised the head part of its body and dived into a bush - we didn't pursue - obviously.

Does anybody know what these snakes are called and if they are agressive - would they attack (other than for their own protection)?

[jeremy]

There was a discussion on snakes on Chit Chat last year I think - no doubt you can find it

[maccasa]

There is only one mildly venomous snake in portugal - it is not dangerous to humans although leaves a lizard fairly dead after a bite! There are about 15 varieties of which the horseshoe whip snake - about 1- 1.5 m long is probably most common in the algarve - perfectly harmless. many years ago they were eaten by the local population - snake and chips I assume

see http://www.gekkoportugal.com/snakes%20in%20portugal.htm

[James Faro]

Best to call out an Irish expert snake pest control specialist, or St. Patrick as he is known! He has a good track record of eliminating snakes.

[shanagarry]

Maccasa - thank you for the link.

I suspect it was the ladder snake - but we didn't hang around too long to look for distinguishing marks. The moment it heard us it reared up and dived into a bush. The intro piece on the link explains their tendency to lie in the sun to warm their bodies. It was around 2.00pm when we saw it and the temperature was 16 - similar to early morning temperatures in the summer. The dog never even saw it - it moved so fast. Been back there 3 times since but no sign.

Thanks again.

[pato]

Yep! we saw one once on the Val de Milho golf course, frightened the life out of me, I missed a three foot put afterwards.

[blue]

Odd to see them out & about this time of year, we get masses in May/June, I think the good weather must have brought it out for a spot of sunbathing. The most venomous snake here is on a par with the adder, will hurt a bit but not dangerous unless you have an allergy or sensitivity to the venom, more dangerous to children & dogs. Snakes only attack humans when they feel threatened. You should always seek medical advice if bitten just to be on the safe side. I love snakes we often get them in the garden, the dogs know to steer clear of them & we've never had a problem.