Spain holidays: Snakes spotted on iconic beaches in Ibiza and Formentera, and swimming in water as temperatures reach 30C
Snakes have been spotted on several beaches in the Balearics ahead of the busy summer season.
There have been reports of numerous snakes in tourist areas, mainly in Ibiza and Formentera. The explanation for the increase in the number of snakes in the area is linked to the importation of ornamental olive trees from the mainland, according to Majorca Daily Bulletin.
Eggs from several species of snakes accidentally travel in these trees, facilitating the establishment of a growing population in Ibiza and Formentera. According to the latest data provided by environmental spokespeople in the region, around 3,800 snakes were captured in 2024 alone: more than 3,000 in Ibiza and nearly 800 in Formentera.
Giant snakes—some nearly two meters long—have been spotted swimming near popular tourist spots, according to Digi24. The summer heat in Spain has reached 30°C, and experts think this also may have triggered the snakes to move into cooler areas, including the sea.
One of the most alarming sightings happened in Portinatx, a resort town in the north of Ibiza. More snake sightings have been confirmed on nearby islands too. One place, Illot de s’Ora, has seen its local lizard population disappear.
Tourists in Ibiza were left "too terrified to swim" after huge snakes of up to 6ft were spotted in the waters. Despite not being poisonous, it is common for snakes to take to the sea, according to experts. Doctor in Biological Sciences, Antònia Maria Cirer said in other territories of the country it will be more difficult to see them in the water, but not in places like Ibiza, where it is common for them to end up taking refuge in boats located on land in winter.