The Most Dangerous and Scary Animals in Malta

05/03/2026

Thinking about moving to Malta or planning a long stay as an expat? With endless sunshine, crystal-clear waters, and stunning landscapes, Malta easily captures the hearts of visitors and new residents alike.

But what about wildlife? Are there dangerous animals in Malta you should know about before packing your bags?

Believe it or not, this small Mediterranean island is home to a few creatures you'll want to avoid. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and filled with rocky countryside and coastal caves, Malta offers perfect hiding spots for some fascinating — and occasionally dangerous — animals.

Here's what expats and tourists should keep an eye out for.

🕷 Recluse Spider

Latin name: Loxosceles reclusa
Where: Under rocks, countryside areas, sometimes inside buildings

Malta has over 150 spider species, but only one is considered medically significant: the recluse spider, sometimes called the "convict spider."

Small (around 1 cm) but powerful, its bite can cause:

Localized swelling
Severe pain
Rash or numbness
Infection
Tissue damage

Encounters are rare, but expats living in rural homes or older buildings should avoid handling spiders directly.

Recluse Spider

🦂 Mediterranean Yellow Scorpion

Latin name: Leiurus quinquestriatus
Where: Countryside, under rocks, hiking trails

This small yellow scorpion delivers a painful sting if disturbed. While not aggressive, it will defend itself.

If you enjoy hiking around Malta's rocky landscapes, avoid lifting stones or placing your hands into crevices. Most sightings occur far from busy tourist areas.

Mediterranean Yellow Scorpion

🐟 Scorpionfish

Family: Scorpaenidae
Where: Rocky seabeds and coral areas

Perfectly camouflaged against rocks, the scorpionfish is one of Malta's most painful sea encounters.

Its dorsal spines inject venom that can cause:

Intense pain
Swelling
Potential nervous system reactions

Expats who love snorkeling or swimming in rocky bays should wear protective water shoes.

Scorpionfish

🌊 Sea Urchins

Class: Echinoidea
Where: Rocky seabeds and shallow coastal waters

Sea urchins are common in Malta. Stepping on one causes sharp spines to break off in the skin, leading to pain and possible infection.

They come in black, brown, purple, red, and green varieties. While not aggressive, they're easily stepped on near rocks.

Sea Urchins

🦈 Great White Shark

Latin name: Carcharodon carcharias
Where: Deep Mediterranean waters

Yes, there are sharks in the Mediterranean — including the iconic great white.

Although attacks are extremely rare and sharks generally stay in deep waters, occasional sightings are reported. Local authorities take shark warnings seriously.

For expats and tourists, the risk is minimal — but always respect official safety advice.

Great White Shark

🐡 Pufferfish

Family: Tetraodontidae
Where: Maltese waters and reefs

One of the most poisonous animals in the world, the pufferfish contains tetrodotoxin — a neurotoxin far more toxic than cyanide.

There is enough toxin in one fish to kill dozens of adults. Touching or consuming it can be fatal.

Fortunately, encounters are rare, and problems usually arise only if handled or eaten.

Pufferfish

🌊 Portuguese Man o' War

Latin name: Physalia physalis
Where: Mediterranean waters and beaches

Often mistaken for a jellyfish, the Portuguese Man o' War is a floating marine organism with long venomous tentacles.

A sting feels like a burning whip against the skin and can cause:

Severe pain
Nausea
Breathing difficulties
In rare cases, serious complications

They sometimes wash up on Malta's beaches, so always watch the shoreline — especially after storms.

Portuguese Man o' War

🐍 Cat Snake

Latin name: Telescopus fallax
Where: Rocky habitats, mostly after dusk

The cat snake is Malta's only venomous snake. Luckily, its venom is mild and not considered dangerous to healthy adults.

Recognizable by its vertical "cat-like" pupils and grey banded body, it usually avoids humans.

Other common Maltese snakes are harmless.

Cat Snake

🏆 What Is the Most Dangerous Animal in Malta?

The Portuguese Man o' War and the pufferfish are considered the most dangerous due to their powerful toxins.

However, it's important to keep perspective: Malta is generally very safe when it comes to wildlife. Serious incidents are extremely rare.

🌍 A Final Note for Expats in Malta

If you're moving to Malta or staying long-term, there's no reason to worry. Compared to many countries, Malta has very few dangerous land animals.

With simple precautions — watching where you step, wearing sea shoes, and respecting marine life — you can safely enjoy everything this beautiful island offers.

Malta remains one of the safest Mediterranean destinations for expats and travelers alike.

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