A resident in Llucmajor has sparked concern online after sharing a photograph of a one-metre horseshoe snake discovered while walking along a rural track in the Bahía area of Mallorca. The image quickly circulated on social media, drawing reactions from locals increasingly worried about the growing number of sightings of the invasive species across the island.
Recognisable by the dark oval markings running along its body and the horseshoe-shaped pattern behind its head, the snake is non-venomous and not considered dangerous to humans. However, experts warn people not to attempt to handle the reptiles if they come across them in the countryside or near residential areas.
Sightings of horseshoe snakes have risen steadily in recent years, particularly in municipalities including Llucmajor, Calvia and Santa Maria. Environmental specialists believe the species was accidentally introduced to the Balearic Islands through imported olive trees from mainland Spain and North Africa.
The reptiles have adapted well to Mallorca’s climate and are now being spotted more frequently in rural zones, gardens and near walking routes, prompting renewed debate over the impact of invasive species on the island’s ecosystem.