The Ladder Snake, also known as Zamenis Scalaris, is a non-venomous species belonging to the Colubridae family. In southwestern Europe, this snake is highly common and is easy to identify anywhere because it has two black stripes (parallel) on its back. Hard to believe, but that’s true!
They normally stay on the ground and climb shrubs and trees to find bird nests. Although it is quite harmless, it can react aggressively sometimes and even bite angrily if you attempt to capture it.
According to IUCN, ladder snake is widespread throughout its range; however, no estimate for its population is available yet. Currently, it is classified as the least concern on the red list of IUCN, and its numbers are super stable today with no danger of extinction, which is great news.
Eager to explore more about Ladder Snake? Keep reading!
Interesting Facts About Ladder Snake You’ll Be Amazed Know
● Description and Specifications
A species of Zamensis, the Ladder Snake, has a confusing taxonomy and is traditionally found in North America, Eurasia, and northern Africa. So now, the authorities have split the genus into some smaller groups.
In general, this snake is of medium size with a maximum length of 160 cm. The adult ladder snake of this species varies very little in color from other species, being a specific shade of brown, from dark to yellowish, with a pair of dark longitudinal stripes.
See the table below to discover its significant specifications:
| Scientific Name | Rhinechis Scalaris |
| Adult Size | 120 to 150cm (4-5ft) |
| Housing | 120 x 60 x 60cm |
| Ideal Humidity | 40 to 50% |
| UVI | 2 to 3 |
| Average Lifespan | 15 to 20 years |
| Ease of handling | Easy |
| Personality | Docile |
● Geographical Distribution
The geographical range of ladder snake revolves around Spain, Italy, Menorca, Portugal, and Southern France. However, it is absent from most of the northern Iberia areas, including Galicia, Pyrenees, Basque, and the Cantabria country.
The population of Ladder Snakes in Menorca might stem from humans’ introduction of this species. Not only in this state but also in many other countries in which it wasn’t present initially and was distributed later on.
● General Appearance
As we mentioned before, the color of ladder snake goes from dark brown to yellowish — having two darker stripes that run down their body from neck to tail.
Their head is quite distinct from the rest of their body, almost like a squashed egg shape. Moreover, they have very prominent and unique eyes with round pupils.
That said, the ventral side of ladder snake is pale, from whitish to slivery-grey, with a dark spot.
Having a ladder pattern, the black color is shown on the upper side, and the pale side is present beneath, with vivid markings. As the snake ages, these specific patterns and colors fade away!
● Breeding Period
The magnificent breeding season of these species differs depending on their current location. For instance, in Iberia, courtship happens during May & June.
Anyhow, it’s important to note that some females don’t breed yearly. Females lay a clutch between 4 to 24 eggs right after 3 to 6 weeks of meeting. Their incubation takes around 5 – 12 weeks.
What’s more, young ladder snakes are measured 20 cm long, just like hatchlings. Unlike other snake species, the Ladder Snake mothers remain with their hatched juvenile ladder snakes for some days.
Both female and male snakes become mature enough to reproduce at around 5 years of age, after reaching the length of almost 65 cm and 50 cm, respectively.
● Diet and Nutrition
When it comes to the diet of Ladder Snakes, let me tell you that they are carnivores. So, it is evident that they feed on mammals like shrews, rabbits, and mice and also eat insects, spiders, and a few birds.
And you know what? They are so sharp they even climb into man-made structures or natural trees to find active nests to prey on birds. Yes, that’s right!
Not only this, but Lizards cannot feel safe in these species, too. In fact, Juvenile snakes highly prefer lizards, spiders, grasshoppers, and spiders.
● Lifestyle and Habits
Ladder snakes are solitary and more active during the day. However, during the extremely hot summer season, they might be nocturnal.
On the other hand, spring months make them more crepuscular. They are defensive and aggressive, so you’ll have to be careful if you ever deal with them.
Remember that any attempt to pick up this species of snake comes with greater risks of sharp bites. So, if you’re thinking about having one, don’t forget to take help from experts.
Being mobile creatures, they can move 100 m per day, which is quite surprising. Adults ladders may even enter buildings or barns while searching for their rodent prey.
But the good news is that they normally don’t use such spots for permanent shelters and prefer piles of stones, hollow trees, and rodent burrows.
Do Ladder Snakes Prove To Be Good Pets?
Many crazy snake lovers often wonder, “How can I adopt Ladder Snakes?” OR, “Do they make good pets for a normal household like mine?”
Well, Ladder Snakes are an ancient colubrid species endemic to Southern and Western Europe. And so, they have the same husbandry needs as the more famous New World colubrids like king snakes and corn snakes.
But hold on! Ladder snakes can absolutely survive in similar temperatures, just like other snakes, which makes them ideal for both experienced keepers who want to own something different.
Many sellers also offer captive-bred Ladder snakes worldwide, which means that you can be safe knowing your snake is free of diseases or parasites. Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?
Conclusion
The “ladder snake,” famous for its unique ladder-like pattern, undeniably holds a special place in our ecosystem. It is an abundant species and isn’t considered a threat to humans presently.
They are currently suffering from a lack of vegetation that they need for agricultural activities. Therefore, this species often becomes a major victim of road mortality.
However, their role in controlling pest populations cannot be ignored. In fact, their presence in different habitats, from rocky terrains to woodlands, also represents how resilient and adaptable they are!
Hope this article helps you gain basic insights on Ladder Snakes!
