European Grass Snake

Other Breeds

Keeshond   |   Palomino   |   Pig – Pot Bellied   |  

Alternative Name

European Grass Water Snake, Ringed Snake, Collared Snake Scientific Name: Natrix natrix

Basic Info

The European Grass Snake usually grows to about three feet (180 centimeters) in length, and its slender body is usually an olive brown color. Variations of brown and green exist, as do black pigmentations. Females are larger than males and may grow up to five feet long. Many have black spots on their sides and back, and a yellow or white collar rings the neck of these snakes. Some have yellow rings around the black spots. Their collar gives them the names Collared or Ringed Snakes.

Health

In captivity, European Grass Snakes should be allowed a bowl to soak in and may appreciate a tub to swim in on occasion. They may be fed appropriately sized fish or rodents. A basking spot warmer than the rest of the terrarium may be of particular importance for this species, whose care is quite similar to that of many Garter Snakes. Breeding Generally, European Grass Snakes hibernate from about November to March. They often lay eggs between the months of June and October, in warm areas like rotting vegetative material or garden compost heaps. Often a clutch contains 30 eggs that will hatch into eight to ten inch long neonates. These young European Grass Snakes usually feed on insect larvae, earthworms, tadpoles, and fish.

Habitat

It is often found in low vegetation near fresh water. European Grass Snakes also populate forested areas and grassland in addition to wetlands.

Behavior

The European Grass Snake, with its rather plain though beautiful color pattern, is often a joy to keep as a pet.Unless you obtain a captive bred snake, it is best to leave this animal in the wild, since its numbers are flagging and wild caught populations must be preserved. Despite their land-oriented name, the European Grass Snake is a very good swimmer. They are often seen basking on cool sunny days in open areas. Although these snakes rarely bite and are not venomous, they can give off a rather disgusting odor when disturbed. They may also hiss when scared. It will draw itself up in a fierce imitation of a cobra and spit in an attempt to thwart the predator. If the European Grass Snake is extremely frightened, it will go into a dramatic enactment of death, flipping over onto its back and flopping its tongue out of its mouth.

Origin

Europe

History

In its native Europe, the Collared Snake is no longer as common as it once was and it is protected by law in many areas. In these areas, it is illegal to keep, harass, or sell European Grass Snakes. There are thought to be about six subspecies of the European Grass Snake, mostly separated by range differences.

Common Foods

European Grass Snakes eat a variety of amphibians, fish, lizards, and even small mammals.