Potentially risky or completely safe?
In recent weeks, there has been an unusual increase in the sightings of black ringed snakes in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. These snakes, while not exotic, are specimens of the native ringed snake (Natrix natrix) with a genetic mutation that produces an excess of melanin, a dark pigment, resulting in their black colouration.
The black colouration of the snakes sighted in North Rhine-Westphalia is most likely the melanistic form of the European adder (Vipera berus). Although venomous, the European adder is generally not dangerous to humans, causing only mild to moderate symptoms and typically avoiding confrontation.
If you encounter a black ringed snake, it is essential to maintain a distance of two meters and avoid touching or disturbing the snake. Instead, contact local wildlife protectors or snake experts, who can be reached via special hotlines. It is also important to note that fines of up to 50,000 euros may be imposed for harming these snakes.
These snakes are beneficial for gardens, as they help in keeping unwanted rodents away. They can grow up to two meters long and weigh between 140 grams (males) and 500 grams (females). They have been sighted in various locations, including cities like Dortmund and Essen, as well as in gardens, cellars, and on fields and forest paths.
Several emergency calls have been made to animal protection services daily in Witten, Germany, due to the increased presence of black snakes. Martin Maschka from the Wildnisschule Ruhrgebiet attributes this increase to climate change, as the region now has climatic conditions similar to the south of Germany where snakes are traditionally more common.
Black ringed snakes flee or play dead when in danger, and their shed skin emits a scent that keeps rodents at bay. They primarily feed on frogs, toads, and salamanders, but also on mice and rats. A photo of the snake can be helpful for professionals to identify the species.
Reports of these black snakes have also been made in various locations, with the pet magazine Petbook also documenting sightings. It is advisable to stay calm and contact experts if you encounter one of these snakes, as they are harmless and beneficial to have around.
- The black coloration observed in the recently sighted snakes in North Rhine-Westphalia might not be limited to the European adder (Vipera berus), as some reports suggest they could be the melanistic form of the native ringed snake (Natrix natrix).
- While the environmental impact of these black ringed snakes on gardens is positive, contributing to controlling rodent populations, their growing presence could potentially indicate a shift in climatic conditions akin to the south of Germany, as theorized by Martin Maschka from the Wildnisschule Ruhrgebiet, due to climate change.
- Beyond the health-and-wellness benefits provided by these snakes, their presence also impacts the broader environment by regulating rodent populations, contributing significantly to the overall balance and resilience of the ecosystem—an essential aspect of environmental science.
