Dahl’s whip snake – strictly protected and non-poisonous species

As HYLA continues the research of reptiles on Lokrum Island (project „Reptiles of Lokrum“, approved by the City of Dubrovnik), a total of 4 species of reptiles has been recorded on Lokrum island so far, among which is one species of snake –  known commonly as Dahl’s whip snake or „Šilac“ in Croatian (Platyceps najadum (Eichwald, 1831).

It is widespread in the eastern coast of the Adriatic Sea and it can be found in the entire Croatian coast as one of the fastest snake in Croatia.

It  occurs around the stone walls, overgrown gardens, rocky river banks, on the path edges and open areas in forests (http://www.hhdhyla.hr/vrste/gmazovi)

It is a strictly protected species according to the Law on nature protection therefore it is not allowed to kill, capture or harass the snake.

Pictre 1. Dahl’s whip snake  (http://www.hhdhyla.hr/vrste/gmazovi)

Picture 2. Dahl’s whip snake on the Lokrum Island