In Ibiza there are no dangers for tourists. The snakes sighted are not poisonous and do not represent any threat to the man. But then what is it that is worrying to the sound of Reel on social media? In reality, the sensation is caused by a sensation Colubro Ferro di Cavallo (Hemorrhois hippoccrepis), a species originally from North Africa and the Iberian peninsula, accidentally introduced on the island with the import of ornamental olive trees.
A snake that, yes, can also reach 190 cm, but which, although it is true that it is becoming a threat to local biodiversity. The species, in fact, can have a negative impact on the endemic lizards of the Pitius (Podarcis pityusensis), a unique species of Ibiza and Formentera.
The introduction of the Colubro Ferro di Cavallo is not an isolated event, but – alas – is part of a well -known phenomenon: The import of invasive alien species. In recent decades, many species of snakes (such as the Biaco – Zamenis Scalaris) were introduced in the Balearic Islands due to human activities, such as the trade of ornamental plants.
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In short, the real problem does not concern man, but indigenous animals. The pitius lizards, endemic species of Ibiza and Formentera, are suffering due to the predation of the Colubro. If this species should be lost, it could have serious repercussions on the local ecosystem, which is why local authorities are already implementing monitoring and containment plans.
Although sensationalism has aroused concerns among tourists, the real risk to Ibiza does not concern people’s safety, but that of the environment: the real emergency is the loss of native biodiversity.
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The case of the island of the Balearics reminds us that the real threats to biodiversity, even if they do not always make news, are among the most urgent problems of our time.
