The proliferation of horseshoe snakes in the Balearics has developed into a significant environmental concern. These invasive reptiles, which typically exceed one metre in length when fully grown, pose a serious threat to the islands' native ecosystem. In response to this situation, the Consortium for Wildlife Recovery in the Balearic Islands (COFIB) has launched a digital platform enabling residents to report sightings and incidents involving these and other invasive species, facilitating quicker and more effective responses from relevant authorities.
The horseshoe snake, whilst not venomous nor presenting a serious danger to humans or pets, has experienced a notable population increase across the islands in recent years. According to COFIB experts, these ophidians typically establish themselves near residential areas where they find their primary food source: rats and mice. Their usual behaviour is to retreat from human presence, but when feeling trapped, they may bite as a defensive mechanism.
In case of a bite, symptoms are relatively mild: small puncture wounds with slight pain and localised swelling. The recommended treatment is straightforward, involving cleaning the affected area with water and mild soap, followed by monitoring the wound's healing process. Upon spotting a horseshoe snake or other invasive species in the Balearics, residents now have access to a digital tool developed by COFIB.
Through the website www.lineaverdecofib.es, anyone can report the presence of these reptiles or other non-native species, providing data about their location and characteristics. This initiative forms part of COFIB's efforts to build a more accessible, participatory and less bureaucratic administration that facilitates public collaboration in protecting the Balearic environment. For citizens uncertain about identifying the specimen they've spotted, COFIB has also established a telephone assistance line at 653 574 145.
Through this channel, specialised technicians offer guidance on recognising the species in question and provide precise instructions on how to proceed in each particular case. This dual communication approach (digital and telephone) aims to maximise effectiveness in the early detection and control of invasive species.
The threat to Balearic biodiversity
Invasive species constitute one of the greatest threats to biodiversity worldwide, and the Balearic Islands are no exception. The geographical isolation of insular ecosystems makes them particularly vulnerable to the introduction of foreign species that can displace native fauna and flora.
In the specific case of the horseshoe snake, its presence is causing an imbalance in local food chains and threatening endemic species that haven't evolved alongside these predators. Experts indicate that these ophidians primarily arrived on the islands accidentally, hidden in shipments of olive trees and other ornamental plants from the Spanish mainland. Once established in the insular territory, they've found ideal conditions for reproduction: favourable climate, abundance of prey, and absence of natural predators to control their population.
The horseshoe snake: characteristics and behaviour
The horseshoe snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) is a colubrid native to the Iberian Peninsula, North Africa, and parts of Italy. It's characterised by its brown or yellowish skin with dark horseshoe-shaped markings along its body, hence its common name. These reptiles can reach considerable lengths, frequently exceeding one metre in adult specimens, making them one of the largest ophidians currently found in the Balearics.
Despite their intimidating appearance, it's worth remembering that they're not a venomous species nor dangerous to humans. Their diet primarily consists of small mammals such as mice and rats, which is why they tend to establish themselves near inhabited areas where these rodents are abundant. In a sense, they exercise natural control over these animal populations, although their presence poses a much greater risk to small-sized native fauna, especially endemic species that haven't developed defence mechanisms against these predators.
What to do if you find a snake on your property
If you encounter a horseshoe snake or similar species in your garden, home, or property, the first thing to do is remain calm and not attempt to capture it yourself. These animals typically flee from human presence but might react defensively if they feel cornered. The most advisable action is to slowly move away and immediately contact COFIB services via the established telephone number (653 574 145) or through the web platform www.lineaverdecofib.es.
It's important to provide precise information about the exact location of the sighting and, if possible, take a photograph of the specimen from a safe distance to facilitate identification. Specialised technicians will assess each case and, if appropriate, send qualified personnel to capture and remove the animal. One should never attempt to handle these reptiles without proper training, as although they aren't venomous, their bites can be painful and may cause infections if not treated correctly.