Warning over spread of snakes on popular Spanish islands
An invasive species of snake has reportedly spread "throughout" one of the most frequented Spanish islands by British tourists, leading to environmentalists declaring they are "losing the war" against these creatures. The Institut d'Estudis Eivissencs (IEE) had previously urged authorities to initiate a strategic trapping campaign to control the increasing population of horseshoe snakes, which crucially don't have teeth that can inject venom
Despite concerted efforts involving more than 500 volunteers working on an eradication project in recent months, the situation is described as "practically unsolvable" by the IEE, a non-profit organisation dedicated to studying and promoting the culture and traditions of Ibiza and Formentera. Conservationists, scientists and the Balearic government believe the snake infestation began when wealthy property owners started planting ancient olive trees imported from mainland Spain and beyond in their gardens, reports the Express.
The snakes are believed to have arrived around 20 years ago, hidden in the cracks and hollow compartments of these non-native trees, which provide ideal conditions for laying eggs and hibernating.
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The native wall lizards of Ibiza (Podarcis pityusensis) are under threat due to a surge in the snake population, causing alarm among campaigners, as previously reported by Diario de Ibiza.
The IEE confirmed: "It can now be confirmed that the horseshoe snake (Hemorrhois hippocrepis) is already present throughout the island."
The group is calling on port authorities to implement stricter measures to prevent snakes from being brought onto the island via boats from other countries.
Furthermore, they are advocating for "generalised and strategic trapping programmes" across the island, arguing that residents could have been mobilised in 2019 to manage thousands of traps effectively.
Additionally, the organisation is pushing for the creation of special reserve areas to safeguard the native lizard, which plays a crucial role in the island's ecosystem.
Ibiza Town Council has been contacted for comment via email.