The Viperine Snake

The viperine snake, aka viperine water snake, can be found throughout southwestern Europe and into northwestern Africa. They prefer meadows, open woodlands close to lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, and have also been recorded in locations with brackish water. Even though they have to contend with ecosystem modifications that alter their habitats; hunting; trapping; and pollution, which negatively effects their watery habitats, these snakes are still listed as Least Concern by the IUCN. Their numbers are decreasing though.

First the Stats…

Scientific name: Natrix maura
Weight: Up to 2+ lbs.
Length: Up to 38.37 inches
Lifespan: Up to 10+ years

Now on to the Facts!

1.) Contrary to their namesake, these snakes are not considered vipers, as they are nonvenomous.

2.) They are semiaquatic (spend part of their time in or near water).

3.) Their diet consists of various fish, frogs, and other aquatic life.

4.) These snakes are placid, non-defensive, and rarely bite, unless mishandled.

5.) While typically solitary, they have been documented gathering into beds to bask, brumate (a brief state of almost hibernation for reptiles), or hibernate.

But wait, there’s more on the viperine snake!

6.) A group of snakes is called a bed, den, knot, nest, or pit.

7.) If threatened, they will take on the pose of an adder and even strike like an adder. But they seldom ever actually bite.

Did you know…?
These snakes are often killed after being misidentified as a venomous snake.

8.) Breeding season begins in March, after hibernation.

9.) Females lay up to 20 eggs near a water source.

10.) Viperine snakes are diurnal (active during the day).

Now a Short Viperine Snake Video!

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Some source material acquired from: Wikipedia & IUCN

Photo credit: Bernard DUPONT