Predation on nests by the Western whip snake

Abstract

The Western Whip Snake Coluber viridiflavus is abundant in Malta and is found in a wide variety of habitats preferring the drier areas. Quite a number of birds' nests are preyed upon by this snake. The worst sufferers are the ground nesting birds namely the Short-toed Lark Calandrella brachydactyla, and the Corn Bunting Miliaria calandra. However, nests of low-nesting species such as the Fan-tailed Warbler Cisticola juncidis, Spectacled Warbler Sylvia conspicillata and Sardinian Warbler Sylvia melanocephala, are also frequently taken. The percentage of predated nests is highest amongst the second broods which coincide generally with late spring or early summer and due to the higher temperature then, the Caluber viridiflavus is more active.