The Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) is a nonvenomous snake belonging to the genus Zamenis longissimus in the family Colubridae. It has a slim body and rounded snout and may reach a maximum length of 225 cm. The body is covered in 23 rows of scales, and the back exhibits a monochromatic coloration ranging from olive-gray to various shades, with some scales featuring white edges. The underside of the snake is typically white or yellowish. The Aesculapian snake is considered rare, despite its abundance in Transcarpathia’s forests.
IRCEF experts have reported observing the Aesculapian snake in two locations: the Schönborn hunting palace, which is also known as the Carpathian sanatorium in the Mukachevo district, and the Nevytsky castle near the village of Kamianytsia in the Uzhhorod district.
The Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) is known to inhabit areas at altitudes of up to 2000 meters above sea level. It seeks shelter in various locations such as mammalian burrows, rotten stumps, tree hollows, brushwood piles, voids under stones, and cracks in rocks. During the winter months, typically from late October to early December, it hibernates. The snake emerges from hibernation in early April to May. The diet of the Aesculapian snake consists primarily of mouse-like rodents, shrews, birds, their chicks, and eggs. It is an oviparous species, meaning it reproduces by laying eggs. Mating occurs in early May to June, often taking place in low trees. In July, the female lays a clutch of 4-10 eggs, which measure about 17-20×35-50 mm in size. The eggs hatch, and the young snakes, known as voles, appear in September to early October.
The Aesculapian snake (Zamenis longissimus) is indeed listed in the Red Book of Ukraine, highlighting its status as a protected species.
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