Are there any dangerous or poisonous animals on Crete?

It is often one of the questions you get as a walking guide: are there any dangerous or poisonous snakes or other animals on Crete? Since there are so many walkers enjoying the Cretan landscape, it is logical to think about such issues, so in this article I describe some animals / insects that might cause a problem (or not) for walkers. Also some tips and tricks about what to do. In this blog I don’t mention animals in the sea like sea urchins etc, only on land! Of course feel free again to write a comment and share your experience or knowledge!

Every year many walkers discover the beautiful island of Crete on foot. Especially in spring and autumn you see many people ‘armed’ with walking shoes, sticks and backpacks exploring this beautiful island. Many hikers walk a part of the E4 trail, especially in south Crete. Others enjoy daily walks from a comfortable hotel. You see guided walking groups or individual walkers with descriptions or walking guidebooks.