Hemorrhois hippocrepis

Horseshoe Whip Snake - These snakes can grow up to 5 feet in length. The eye is large with round pupils. Not shown here as this one was far too quick for me! Although it has been known to bite it is not venomous. It is native to southwestern Europe and northern Africa. This one quickly crossed my path at Vilamoura Reed beds in Portugal. (Better luck next time!)

John Foss Nature Photography Birds Wild Flowers Wildlife Butterflies Moths Greaghnafarna Ballinaglera Ireland Leitrim Derby England UK Algarve Portugal