grass snake

The grass snake, one of the most common snake species in Europe, is known for its adaptability and its important ecological balance. This fact sheet provides a detailed overview of the biology and ecology of the grass snake and highlights the importance of its protection and conservation in natural habitats.

grass snake Products

Profile: grass snake

  • Scientific classification

    • Class: Reptilia (reptiles)
    • Order: Squamata (squamata)
    • Family: Colubridae (snakes)
    • Genus: Natrix
    • Species: N. natrix (grass snake)

  • Physical characteristics

    • Size: Average length of 60-100 cm
    • Special features: Slender body, smooth scales, olive to grey base colouring with dark spots and stripes, characteristic whitish chin band.

  • Habitat and distribution

    • Common regions: Europe, parts of Asia
    • Habitat: Water bodies in a variety of habitats such as wetlands, river banks, lakes, but also in gardens and parks.

  • Nutrition

    • Diet: Carnivore
    • Typical food: Amphibians such as frogs, toads, newts, occasionally small fish and rodents.

  • Reproduction and lifestyle

    • Mating season: Spring
    • Reproduction: Egg laying from June to July, 10-40 eggs per clutch
    • Brood care: Females lay their eggs in decaying plant materials, no brood care after hatching.
    • Social structure: Solitary outside of the mating season, often found near bodies of water.

  • Lifespan and protection status

    • Life expectancy: Up to 15 years in the wild
    • Endangered status: Not threatened, but local populations may be affected by habitat loss and road traffic.
    • Conservation measures: conservation and protection of wetlands, creation of migration corridors, measures to prevent habitat fragmentation.