Newsroom
A local man's encounter with two large snakes in his garden led to a wave of concern, advice, and debate in a popular community Facebook group.
Deran Holden posted in the L.E.A.D Limassol East & Amathus Districts group asking for help with what he believed were Black Whip snakes spotted on his property in Moni/Pyrgos.
“Anyone able to come take these 2 what I assume are Black Whip snakes out my garden in Moni/Pyrgos,” Holden wrote. “Managed to get one out the property and 30 minutes later I saw it come back in. Have 3 dogs and the one is trying to attack the snakes, so rather want them gone before something bad happens to either the dogs or snakes.”
Holden emphasized he was aware the snakes are harmless and non-venomous but was concerned for their safety as well as that of his dogs. “I can’t keep my dogs inside until they’ve moved on and my dogs will kill the snakes. I don’t want them to be killed, just to be moved,” he added.
His post drew dozens of responses from residents offering identification tips, recommendations for snake catchers, and differing opinions on the risks involved.
“Not venomous, this is two males fighting for dominance! Join the group Bio Diversity Cyprus. Don’t get them killed,” commented Lesley Muncey.
Phil Dempsey noted, “Normaly 2 together that close is mating,” to which Muncey replied, “2 males trying to show dominance, when mating they are more on the ground.”
Concerns for the dogs were echoed by others. “We would hate them to get hurt by the dogs and also if the dogs get bitten (even if not venomous - will there be some discomfort?)” wrote Julie Georghiou Holden. “We are definitely happy they aren’t vipers but would like to do what is best for the snakes and our dogs.”
Community members disagreed on whether the snakes could pose a threat. “They are harmless,” said Fedra Michaelidou. Panayiota Lordou countered, “No they are not harmless if you go near them feel threatened they attack and can whip badly specially the dogs.” Angela Rose responded, “Whip snakes do NOT whip. They are called whip snakes because of their appearance.”
Sozi Constantinidou offered another view: “Actually they do whip! I heard many stories from older people who used to work in the fields that they got whipped by this kind of snake, and it's really painful they said.”
Several commenters shared contact details for professional help. Connie Bislev suggested pest and snake control, while others pointed to Yiannis Angeli, a known local reptile handler. “Call Yannis from the reptile house 99107591 he will come & collect them,” wrote Angela Agathangelou.
Some believed the snakes may have left the area already. “Hopefully they've moved on by now,” said Katie Sabry. “Maybe these two beauties finished their courtship and left anyway.”
The conversation reflects a deep interest in Cyprus’s native wildlife and a range of views on how to respond to non-venomous snake encounters. Whether the snakes were mating or engaging in dominance behavior, the discussion highlighted a community striving to protect both its pets and its wildlife.
