26
Species
Reptiles

The updated reptile list in Wildlife Morocco, which now includes sea turtles, features 116 extant species (Bouazza et al., 2021). More than 30 of these species are endemic to Morocco, highlighting the country's exceptional biodiversity. The highest level of endemism is found in lizard   such as Skinks (Scincidae), Geckos (Sphaerodactylidae), True lizards (Lacertidae) and and worm lizards (Blanidae().

Order Squamata

Squamates are a diverse group of reptiles that includes lizards, snakes, and amphisbaenians (worm lizards)

Snakes of Morocco (Ophidia)

Snakes in Morocco are represented by 26 species across 8 families. Venomous snakes include 6 species of vipers and one species of cobra.

Family Leptotyphlopidae/Glauconiidae (Slender Blind Snakes) 

Small, burrowing snakes in Morocco, found in desert habitats, feeding primarily on ants and termites.

Family Boidae (Erycidae) أصلات

A rare, non-venomous constrictor species found in northern Morocco, typically inhabiting semi-arid regions.

Family Colubridae (Colubrids) الحنشيات

The most represented snake family in Morocco with 10 species, generally non-venomous or not dangerous to humans.

Family Natricidae

No venimous water snakes. Natrix maura is common, while Natrix astreptophora is rare in the Rif Mountains.

Family Lamprophiidae

Afro-tropical family common in Africa. In Morocco, represented by a single species, a relic of the tropical past!

Family Psammophiidae

Psammophiidae are considered opisthoglyphous snakes, meaning their fangs are located behind their upper jaw. While their venom is generally not highly toxic to humans, larger species can pose a serious threat.

Morocco is home to four species. Except for Malpolon insignitus, which is relatively rare, the other species are relatively common in the country.

Family Elapidae (Cobras)

Represented by the Moroccan black cobra (Naja haje haje) in Morocco, with "Naja haje legionis" considered a color morph specific to the region.

Family Viperidae (Vipers)

Six venomous species in Morocco, with Moorish and horned vipers common; other species are localized by specific ecological needs