The Black Whip Snake

The Black Whip Snake (Dolichophis jugularis)

The Black Whip Snake (Dolichophis jugularis), also known as the Black Snake, is a non-venomous species belonging to the Colubridae family. It is considered one of the longest snakes in the Middle East and Europe.

The Black Snake is known for its length and speed. It can reach up to 3 meters in length. Its color varies depending on age: when young and up to about 1.2 meters long, it is brown-gray with irregular black spots. As it matures, these spots turn fully black, resulting in a uniform dark coloration. Its belly is gray, and the underside of the head is white.

Its diet consists of small mammals, birds, lizards, and even other snakes.

During the mating season in spring, females attract males using pheromones. About 45 days after successful fertilization, the female lays between 5 and 15 eggs in a safe, humid place. After roughly two months, the young hatch and become independent and strong enough to find food on their own.

The Black Whip Snake is completely harmless but can act aggressively when threatened. If it feels in danger, it raises its body to strike. Its bite is non-venomous but may last longer due to its curved teeth. Although harmless, the bite area should be cleaned to prevent infection. This snake is very beneficial, especially in agriculture, as it feeds on rodents. Historically, people used to buy groups of these snakes and release them on their lands to control rodent and venomous snake populations.

Source: Arabic Wikipedia