Snakes in Spain | 6 Mind-blowing Tips for Travelers

Snakes in Spain

Affiliate Disclaimer

We may earn commission as an affiliate from qualifying purchase made through any of the link in this post thank you so much.

Snakes in Spain are found in every corner of the world, including Spain. Some species can be dangerous if they bite you. They have venom that can affect your body and cause serious health problems. In this post, we will tell you about all types of snakes in Spain and how to avoid them while traveling there.

There are many dangers that you can face when traveling in Spain (and other countries, for that matter). However, there is one you might be less aware of: snakes.

Spain has an impressively high number of snake species, and some of them might surprise you. Most species of snakes pose little danger to people. But there are a few types that are quite dangerous.

This post is meant to make you aware of this issue and provide some advice on what to do if you ever encounter one of these creatures while on your travels.

Most people are terrified of snakes, and their presence in Spain is enough to scare many people away.

However, there is a large population of snakes in Spain, and therefore those who live there need to know how to deal with them. Here, we answer some of the most important questions about them.

Snakes in spain

Most of the snakes in Spain are harmless, but some are venomous. You should never try to catch a snake or pick it up with your bare hands. In the past, there have been cases of people being bitten by snakes while they were trying to catch them.

The most dangerous species in Europe is the viper (Vipera aspis). This snake has a triangular head and is covered with scales. Its body is grey, brown, or yellowish green, and its belly is white or yellowish.

It has a sharp spur on each side of its head, which it uses to strike at its prey. The venom from this snake contains hemotoxins, which destroy blood cells, causing bleeding from all body surfaces.

Adult vipers can grow up to 90 cm long and live for about 20 years in captivity. There are other poisonous snakes in Europe:

the common European adder (Vipera berus), the European grass snake (Natrix natrix), and two sea snakes (Pelamis bicolor and Pelamis gelatinosa).

The most dangerous of these is the common European adder. This snake has a triangular head, which it uses to bury itself in the sand when threatened. It can grow up to 1 meter long, but its bite is rarely fatal to humans if treated correctly.

The European grass snake is usually less than 0.5 m long and is easy to identify by its distinctive black and yellow cross-banding pattern along its back. The venom from this snake is not very potent, and it rarely bites humans unless handled or provoked.

Points to keep in mind

  • Venomous snakes in Spain
  • How many venomous snakes are there in Spain?
  • Where can you see snakes in Spain?
  • How to avoid snake bites while visiting Spain.
  • What to do after being bit by a snake.
  • Safety gears against snake bite.

Venomous snakes in Spain

As you travel through Spain, you may be exposed to some venomous snakes. While most countries have several species of venomous snakes, Spain has only eight varieties.

The most common are vipers and asps, which are each found in different regions of the country. The horned viper is a rare species found only in northern Spain or Portugal.

It prefers mountainous areas with rocky soil and cliffs where there’s plenty of vegetation for hiding and hunting prey. If you do happen upon any one of these snakes, keep your distance and leave it alone!

If you’re bitten by a snake, seek medical attention immediately. Even if the bite is from a nonvenomous species, it can still become infected.

Snakes in Spain are vipers and asps. They’re found throughout the country, especially in the warmer climates of southern Spain. The most common venomous snakes in Spain are:

Horned viper (Vipera ammodytes): This is one of the few species of venomous snakes that can be found only on mainland Europe;

It lives primarily in Portugal, but there have been sightings in northern Spain as well. It prefers rocky areas with plenty of vegetation for hiding and hunting prey.

Prairie rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis): this is one of the most common venomous snakes in Spain. It mostly lives in southern Spain, where it is warmer, but people have also seen it in Murcia and Granada.

It prefers rocky areas with plenty of vegetation for hiding and hunting prey. European asp (Vipera aspis): this snake is widespread throughout Spain, especially in the warmer climates of southern Spain.

It lives primarily in Portugal, but there have been sightings in northern Spain as well. It prefers rocky areas with plenty of vegetation for hiding and hunting prey.

Recommended boots against snake bite

Editor’s choice

Best value

Read more articles: Can You Take Eggs Backpacking?

How many venomous snakes are there in Spain?

There are 11 venomous snakes in Spain, including the European viper, the grass viper, and the Montpellier snake. The most common venomous snake in Spain is the European viper (Vipera berus), which is also considered to be the most dangerous snake in Spain.

This snake can be found living in open areas such as fields, meadows, and hillsides. The grass viper is considered to be one of two other dangerous species of snakes that live in Spain.

It prefers living near water, so if you see an unusual amount of frogs or other amphibians near a riverbank, you should watch out for this type of snake!

The Montpellier snake is another species of venomous snake that can be found in Spain. This type of snake prefers living in dry areas such as grasslands and rocky hillsides. If you see this type of snake near the Mediterranean coast, it could mean that they are trying to escape the heat!

There are many other types of dangerous snakes in Spain, such as the adder, horned viper, and rock snake. These snakes can be found living in open areas such as fields, meadows, and hillsides.

If you see an unusual amount of frogs or other amphibians near a riverbank, it could mean that there is a snake nearby! The Montpellier snake is one of the most dangerous species of snakes in Spain.

This type of snake prefers living in dry areas such as grasslands and rocky hillsides. If you see this type of snake near the Mediterranean coast, it could mean that they are trying to escape from the heat!

There are many other types of dangerous snakes in Spain, such as the adder, horned viper, and rock snake. These snakes can be found living in open areas such as fields, meadows, and hillsides.

Snake bite kit

Editor’s choice

Best value

Read more articles: How to Pack Eggs for Backpacking?

Snakes of Spain

Where can you see snakes in Spain?

The best place to see snakes is in the Canary Islands. The Maspalomas dunes have a good population of snakes, and they can be seen during the summer months.

There are also many snakes in the Algarve region of Portugal, but you need a bit of luck to find them as they are very shy and only come out at night. The best time to look for them is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is cooler and drier than during the summer months.

In Andalusia, there are plenty of places where you can see snakes, including near Malaga Airport, where there are several species living in the wild.

There are also some species living near Gibraltar that can be found if you go walking along the coastal paths or cliffs in this area of southern Spain.

Snakes are found throughout Spain, but they’re most common in the southern half of the country, including around Barcelona and Madrid.

You can find snakes in all kinds of habitats: deserts and forests at high altitudes, as well as wetlands and grasslands near the coast.

In Spain, you’re more likely to see snakes during the summertime (June through August). It’s also important to remember that these creatures are nocturnal by nature; if you don’t see one during daylight hours, keep an eye out for them at night!

Don’t worry too much about getting bitten by a snake unless you’re handling it or stepping on one accidentally—these animals are shy creatures who will generally stay away from humans unless provoked (or hungry).

The most common snakes in Spain are the adder, grass snake, and smooth snake. The adder is a venomous viper that can be found in many places across the country.

These snakes have dark brown or black stripes on their backs and are usually between 50 cm and 120 cm long. Grass snakes are non-venomous but can still give you a nasty bite if provoked; they have green bodies with yellow spots on them.

and are between 70 cm and 110 cm in length. Smooth snakes are also non-venomous, but they have narrower bodies than adders and grass snakes.

In Spain, you’re more likely to see snakes during the summertime (June through August). It’s also important to remember that these creatures are nocturnal by nature; if you don’t see one during daylight hours, keep an eye out for them at night!

Don’t worry too much about getting bitten by a snake unless you’re handling it or stepping on one accidentally—these animals are shy creatures who will generally stay away from humans unless provoked (or hungry).

Read more articles: How to Backpack with Eggs?

How to avoid snake bites while visiting Spain

Spain is a beautiful country with many natural wonders. From its great beaches to the beautiful mountains and valleys, there is so much to see and do in Spain. However, one of the things that can ruin any vacation is getting bitten by a snake.

There are many different types of snakes in Spain, and they are all different sizes. Some are small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, while others are large enough to swallow an entire goat in its entirety! 

You can minimize your risk of being bitten by a snake in Spain by following these guidelines:

  • Wear long pants and closed shoes. Snakes are more likely to bite people who are wearing shorts or sandals than those who are fully clothed.
  • Avoid walking through tall grass or brush. This is where snakes like to hide and rest during the day, so avoid going into such areas unless absolutely necessary.
  • Never put your hands where you can’t see them because this is how many people get bit by snakes—by reaching down and forgetting that there was a snake underfoot!
  • And finally, if you do find yourself face-to-face with a snake in Spain, don’t stick your hands into holes or recesses in the ground (since they may be hiding there) and try not to pick up the reptile—you might just get bitten!

If you do get bitten by a snake in Spain, don’t panic. Try to remain calm and assess the situation. If there’s someone around who knows first aid and CPR, ask them to help you.

Otherwise, call 112 (the European equivalent of 911) or any local emergency number so that medical assistance can be sent as quickly as possible.

Once medical help arrives, they’ll assess your condition and provide treatment as necessary. In most cases, snakebites are not fatal but can be very painful. If you do get bitten by a snake in Spain, it’s best to stay calm and assess the situation before making any rash decisions.

In most cases, snakebites are not fatal but can be very painful. If you do get bitten by a snake in Spain, it’s best to stay calm and assess the situation before making any rash decisions.

Snake bite kit

Editor’s choice

Best value

Read more articles: Best Texas State Parks for RV

Snakes in Spain

What to do after being bit by a snake

If you are bitten by a snake in Spain, you should call for help. Do not try to suction out the venom or make a tourniquet. Do not apply ice or cold packs, and do not apply constrictive bandages (like an elastic bandage).

Also, don’t cut the wound—it can increase bleeding and delay treatment. If you are bitten by a snake, remain calm and try to keep the wound below the level of your heart.

This will slow down the spread of venom through your body. If possible, get someone to drive you to the nearest hospital or medical center.

Remain still until you can get help. If possible, wrap a cloth around the wound and apply pressure to stop any bleeding. It is best not to suck out the venom, as this can cause more damage and swelling in your mouth.

If you are alone, put a splint or bandage on the limb and put it against something stiff, like a branch or stick. Do not use a tourniquet, as this can cause more damage than the bite itself.

If that’s not possible, try to walk slowly and steadily—this will help prevent blood loss and reduce the risk of an embolism (when a piece of tissue breaks off from one part of your body and travels through your bloodstream until it lodges itself elsewhere).

Read more articles: Seattle to Yellowstone Road Trip

Safety gears against snake bite

If you are an adventurer and love to travel, you can never be prepared for everything. Snake bites are the most common cause of death among snakebite victims. In fact, snake bites kill more people than any other animal attack.

The best way to protect yourself from snake bites is to avoid them. But what if you encounter a venomous snake?

The first thing you need to do is not panic! Calm down and assess the situation before taking any action. If you panic, it will make your body release adrenaline, which can actually make the bite worse.

The following snake bite protection equipment can help keep you safe from a snake bite.

1. Snake bite kits include suction devices, bandages, and antivenom to treat snake bites.You can buy these kits from a medical store or online and keep them in your first aid kit.

2. Snake guard: It is a pneumatic device that prevents snake bites by blowing air on the approaching snakes to make them move away from you. Snakes are afraid of loud noises and vibrations, so this device works efficiently against them.

3. Snake repellent is an oil that you spray around your house or garden to prevent snakes from entering your home or yard and harming you or your family members.

  • Wear long pants and long sleeves.
  • Wear sturdy shoes or boots.
  • Don’t put your hands in places you can’t see. This includes under rocks, logs, and leaves on the ground, where snakes may be hiding.
  • Don’t go hiking alone; always have a buddy with you who can help you if you get bit by a snake (or if they need help themselves).
  • Don’t go camping alone; always have a buddy with you who can help you if you get bit by a snake (or if they need help themselves).
  • Avoid areas where snakes live or breed; don’t walk through tall grasses or brush without looking carefully for them first!

Don’t go camping in snake country without taking precautions. Keep a first-aid kit and snakebite kit handy, and know how to use both of them.

If you see a snake, don’t panic! First, try to identify it by looking at its markings. If you can’t do this safely, back away slowly and carefully. Don’t try to kill or capture snakes; they will bite if they feel threatened.

If you are bitten by a snake, try to identify it so that you can get medical treatment. If possible, take photos of the snake so others can help identify it too.

Safety boot against snake bite

Editor’s choice

Best value

FAQ

1. Are there any dangerous snakes in Spain?

Seoane’s viper, Montpellier snake, asp viper, Lataste’s viper, and false smooth snake are the five poisonous snakes found in Spain. The asp viper is the most dangerous to people. It is reported that if one of these guys bites you, it would hurt so much it may kill you.

2. How common are snakes in Spain?

Although snakes are extremely common in Spain, it is doubtful that you will encounter one since they avoid people.

3. What kind of snakes live in Spain?

The Seoane’s viper is the most poisonous Spanish snake there is. Despite the fact that healthy individuals are not believed to be at danger from their venom

4. Are there snakes in Malaga Spain?

The Vipera latastei, often known as the snub-nosed viper or adder, is a little snake that grows no more than 75 cm in Málaga. The largest snake in the region, the Montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus), may grow to a height of 2 m.

Keep in mind

In the end, the most important thing to remember about snake bites is that they can be incredibly dangerous. That’s why it’s so important to educate yourself on what to do if you get bitten by one. Hopefully, this article has helped you do just that!

In a recent survey, it was found that there have been sightings of more than 16 different species of snakes in the Spanish region of Extremadura in recent years.

There are different colors of the European adder, a very rare albino European viper, and even a snake that hasn’t been named yet.

It seems as though some types of these animals are adapting well to the changing landscape, perhaps to the point where they could even thrive.

But as scientists try to understand how such drastic environmental changes could affect these animals over time, not everyone is happy to see that they’re spreading.

Read more articles: Snakes of Spain

Other related articles

About the author

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Latest posts

  • Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows: Is the High Cost Worth It? We Investigate

    Bora Bora Overwater Bungalows: Is the High Cost Worth It? We Investigate

    Bora Bora overwater bungalows: Are you dreaming of a tropical paradise with crystal clear waters, white sand beaches, and luxurious accommodations? Look no further than Bora Bora, the picturesque island in French Polynesia that’s famous for its overwater bungalows. Bora Bora makes people think of beautiful lagoons with palm trees swaying in the wind and stunning…

    Read more

  • Discover Your Dream Vacation: Which Airlines Fly to Bora Bora?

    Discover Your Dream Vacation: Which Airlines Fly to Bora Bora?

    Which airlines fly to Bora Bora? Air France, Air Tahiti Nui, Lufthansa and American airline, Are you tired of daydreaming about your dream vacation and ready to make it a reality? Do you envision yourself lounging on pristine white-sand beaches, surrounded by crystal clear turquoise waters? Look no further than the stunning island paradise of…

    Read more

  • Backpacking New Mexico | 4 Tips for Backpack, Hikes or Hiking

    Backpacking New Mexico | 4 Tips for Backpack, Hikes or Hiking

    Backpacking New Mexico: Nestled between the southern Chihuahuan Desert and the northern Sangre de Cristo Mountains lies a land of breathtaking natural beauty that draws backpackers from far and wide: New Mexico. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time adventurer, this state offers a unique and diverse range of landscapes that will leave you…

    Read more