Malpolon moilensis

(Reuss, 1834)

Vernacular names

English : Moila snake
French : Couleuvre de Moila

Classification

Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Psammophiidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification

Adults can grow to about 1 m in length, very rarely to 1.90 m. Recognizable with its unique head shape and large reddish eyes. Coloration sandy beige with dark brown square blotches on back. Large black blotch on cheek.

Range and habitat

The species occurs in northern Africa and western Asia, from Morocco to Sudan, east to Arabian peninsula, Iran and Iraq. Lives in rocky areas of deserts and other arid habitats.

Conservation

IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species seems to remain common although it is locally caught for the trade and for food.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation