Black whip snake - Dolichophis Jugularis
Appearance: It can grow up to 3 metres in length and is considered to be the longest snake in Europe. More specifically it is the largest snake found in Cyprus and the most common one. Up until the age of 5-6 years old it has a brick colour with dark brown spots, while later it takes its characteristic black colour. The snake can be easily spotted as it shines in sunlight due to its black color.
Habitat: This snake can be found in heights up to 1500 metres. Quite common in its kind, its main habitat is agricultural and open areas with groups of trees or bushes.
Diet: Its diet comprises of small mammals, birds, lizards and even other snakes. Sometimes it prefers large insects.
Dangerousness: It is completely harmless but it is considered to be aggressive when threatened. If found in danger, it lifts its body in order to bite. Its bite is not poisonous but it may last for a longer time due to the curviness of its teeth. The black whip snake is very useful, especially for agriculture as it feeds on rodents. It is worth mentioningthat in the olden days, farmers would buy these snakes and place them on their land in order to control the number of rodents and other poisonous snakes. Lastly, it is also worth mentionting that this snake can climb trees to hunt young birds and steal eggs.
