Grass Snake

The grass snake (Natrix natrix) is a non-venomous snake predominantly found across Europe and western Asia. This species is characterized by its distinct green or brown coloring, with a characteristic pale yellow collar behind the head, which sets it apart from other snakes within its range. Adult grass snakes typically range from 90 to 150 cm (about 3 to 5 feet) in length, making them one of the larger snake species within their geographical range. Some individuals are melanistic, which means they are alle black and lack the pale yellow collar. Such individuals can be distinguished from similar snakes, such as melanistic adders (Vipera berus), by their smoother scales and more rounded head shape.

Grass snakes are commonly found in wetlands, meadows, woodlands, and riverbanks, preferring habitats close to water sources. Their diet mainly consists of amphibians, especially frogs and toads, which they hunt using their keen sense of smell to track down. They have also been known to eat fish, small mammals, and even birds on occasion. The hunting method of the grass snake involves catching their prey unawares, primarily through stealth, rather than venom, to immobilize it.

Grass snakes are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day, and they hibernate underground from October to April. They are excellent swimmers and can often be found basking in the sun near water bodies to regulate their body temperature. Socially, they are generally solitary except during the breeding season. When threatened, grass snakes may hiss and feign death by lying on their back with their mouth open, a behavior known as thanatosis, to deter predators.

The breeding season for grass snakes occurs in the spring, after emerging from hibernation. Males compete for females, who then lay 10 to 40 eggs in compost heaps, manure piles, or other warm locations that can incubate the eggs. Eggs hatch after about 40 to 60 days, depending on the temperature, and the young have to fend for themselves. Grass snakes reach sexual maturity at around 2 to 3 years of age and have a life expectancy of up to 15 years in the wild, depending on environmental factors and predation.

The grass snake is currently listed as least concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that it is not at immediate risk of widespread decline. However, habitat destruction and pollution pose significant threats to local populations.