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Spanish Smooth Snake?: |
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Leigh Member Joined: 15 Jul 2003 No. of posts: 16  View other posts by Leigh |
Posted: 16 Mar 2008 Hi My parents drove into the Mountains in Southern Spain and my Mum almost stepped on this snake. Apparently it appeared dead, but wriggled slightly when my Dad moved it with his foot (he had trainers on...not his usual sandals!!). I think it is a Smooth Snake going by the shape of the head and markings. What do you think? Leigh  Photo and Digital Imaging http://www.leightovey.com |
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Dan Kane Senior Member Joined: 30 Dec 2005 No. of posts: 201  View other posts by Dan Kane |
Posted: 16 Mar 2008 Not a Smooth Snake, but a Viperine Snake Leigh, Natrix maura. I'm guessing there is a lake or pond nearby, as all these snakes eat is amphibians and fish. It is not a dangerous snake though, so your parents have nothing to worry about. Dan www.randacumbria.moonfruit.com |
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Leigh Member Joined: 15 Jul 2003 No. of posts: 16 View other posts by Leigh |
Posted: 16 Mar 2008 Hi Dan Thanks for the prompt reply and info. Actually came across a Viperine Snake about 20 years ago, but couldn't remember what it looked like...in fact it never even entered my mind!! Will pass the info on to my parents as I am sure they would want to know what they nearly stepped on! Leigh Photo and Digital Imaging http://www.leightovey.com |
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st rick Senior Member Joined: 26 Apr 2006 No. of posts: 141  View other posts by st rick |
Posted: 17 Mar 2008 Great Pic Leigh's Dad! 
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Leigh Member Joined: 15 Jul 2003 No. of posts: 16 View other posts by Leigh |
Posted: 17 Mar 2008 I taught him well...he!he! Photo and Digital Imaging http://www.leightovey.com |
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David Bird Forum Specialist Joined: 17 Feb 2003 No. of posts: 515 View other posts by David Bird |
Posted: 17 Mar 2008 This is the so called "Viperine" phase with the distinct zig zag along the centre of the back, there is also a "Tessellated" phase with a series of square dark markings and also the "Striped" phase where there are 2 very distinct dorso-lateral stripes. These can all be found in the same area and the species is very variable with specimens also showing intergrades of the 3 main patterns. British Herpetological Society Librarian and member of B.H.S Conservation Committee. Self employed Herpetological Consultant and Field Worker. |
- Spanish Smooth Snake? |