in-cyprus 26 May 2025
The Ministry of Agriculture has issued safety guidelines ahead of summer, warning that whilst only one of the island’s eight snake species poses a serious threat to humans, the public should take preventive measures to reduce encounters.
The ministry said three of Cyprus’s eight snake species are venomous, but only the blunt-nosed viper or fina (Macrovipera lebetina) is considered dangerous to humans due to its potent venom that can cause serious health complications if bitten.
Two other venomous species – the Montpellier snake or sapitis (Malpolon insignitus) and the European cat snake or agiofido (Telescopus fallax) – possess weak venom used primarily to immobilise prey and do not cause serious harm to humans.
No effective repellent methods available
“Since there is no safe and effective method of snake repellent, it would be better to limit the factors that attract them to reduce the likelihood of their appearance,” the ministry stated.
The ministry advised anyone encountering a snake not to panic or attempt to chase or kill it, but to move away calmly without sudden movements.
Summer safety recommendations
“To avoid accidents, especially during the summer months, when moving in the countryside, we wear closed-toed shoes that cover the foot at least up to the ankle, as well as long trousers, so that we are protected in case we step on a venomous snake, we use a stick or rod to stir the grass and bushes in front of us. Snakes perceive ground vibrations and usually move away on their own,” the ministry said.
In case of a viper bite, the ministry warned against attempting to suck out venom or tie the bite area, advising instead to “go immediately to the nearest hospital while limiting movement to a minimum”.
Prevention measures for properties
The ministry recommended several measures to make properties less attractive to snakes. “Limit food and water sources, such as exposed food, animal feed, or moisture that may attract insects and rodents,” the statement said.
Additionally, “remove objects such as stones, wood, old furniture, or other materials that create hiding places, cut tall grass and remove cut remnants, prune the bases of dense bushes to a height of up to 60cm from the ground, creating a gap at the bottom, we ensure that wet and cool spots are not created (such as permanently wet grass or external pools) and we seal cracks well in storage areas, basements, or other spaces, in order to prevent access to them”.
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