Our second C&FH - BUHS collaborative expedition took us to the southern regions of Portugal. Our main targets for this trip were Lataste’s viper (Vipera latastei) and the jewel eyed lizard (Timon lepidus). Unfortunately a very old mountain road which, after some attempt to drive up became too treacherous meant we would not find our former target but after days of searching, the latter, an impressively large male, would make an appearance.

We managed to find most of the other species which call this region home. The montpellier snake (Malpolon monspessulanus) made a couple of appearances but, being the lightning quick snake they are, was quick to evade capture or provide the opportunity for a photo.

Overall, Portugal did not disappoint us. The hot climate provided us with narrow windows of good conditions in which we managed to survey coastlines, ruins, mountains and marshes.

Portugal, we will be back!

Keep an eye on future journal issues for a full report of this trip and feel free to contact us about it or future trips!