Anna Hartz
Ibiza Faces Snake Problem as Tourists Report Sightings
Ibiza is famous for its parties, crystal-clear water, and stunning beaches. But now, something unexpected is scaring both locals and tourists.
Giant snakes—some nearly 2 meters long—have been spotted swimming near popular tourist spots, according to Digi24.
Videos and photos are all over social media. People are shocked, scared, and some have even canceled their vacations.
May Be Triggered by Summer Heat
The summer heat in Spain has reached 30°C, and experts think this 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.
Two people were relaxing in an inflatable boat when they suddenly saw a huge snake swimming nearby. They filmed it. It was about 1.75 meters long. Their video quickly spread online.
A tourist posted on social media, saying, “Unbelievable. How many snakes there are. I’m afraid to go into the water again.” Another wrote, “Ibiza used to be peaceful. Now it feels cursed.”
More snake sightings have been confirmed on nearby islands too. One place, Illot de s’Ora, has seen its local lizard population disappear.
Not a New Problem
Experts blame the snakes. These reptiles aren’t venomous, but that doesn’t make people feel any safer. Most beachgoers didn’t even know snakes could swim.
Biologist Antònia Maria Cirer explained that some snakes spend winter hiding in boats that are stored on land.
When those boats are returned to the water in the summer, the snakes escape by swimming to the shore. It’s a natural reaction, but not one people want to see on holiday.
Locals say this isn’t new. They’ve been warning about a growing snake problem for years. Now they feel ignored.
Many believe the situation is getting out of control. Traps are being set up all over the island, but new snake sightings are being reported daily. People are finding them on roads, in gardens, and near farms.
Some tourists are already changing their plans. They don’t want to take the risk.