Grass Snake Fact File
The
Grass snake fact file
- Common name – grass snake.
- Scientific name – natrix natrix helvetica.
- Size – adult grass snakes can grow to lengths of 120cm, but 80-100cm is average.
- Identification tips – the body is an olive-green colour with subtle black spots or lines regularly spaced along the back and flanks. The snake’s most distinguishing feature is its pale yellow collar immediately behind the head.
- Preferred habitat – dense undergrowth and as close to fresh water as possible, such as ponds and streams.
- Diet – grass snakes feed mainly on frogs and small fish if available. Newts will also be readily eaten. Land food includes bird eggs and small mammals such as mice.
- Breeding – mating happens between late April to May, soon after the snakes emerge from their winter hibernation. Between 5 and 40 eggs are laid in August / September and hatch after around 10 weeks.
Small patches of rotting vegetation make ideal grass snake nests, as the decomposition of the vegetation provides the required heat for the eggs to develop properly. - Other points – the grass snake is Britain’s largest reptile and the most common snake. Widespread throughout the New Forest and surrounding countryside, especially around fresh water. They are very strong swimmers and are equally at home in the water as on land.
Grass snakes are non-venomous; under threat they may release a pungent odour or, on occasion, remain motionless in an attempt to play dead.
Related Pages:
Exploring natural wonders
Exploring natural wonders: from New Forest to the deserts of the UAE For English travellers, the UAE is a sweet invitation into a world of exceptional land beauty. From the billowing dunes of its
Water Clarity and Its Impact on Bass Behaviour
Fishing is as much about observation as it is about skill, and water clarity plays a vital role in determining bass behaviour. Whether you’re fishing in a clear mountain lake or a murky pond, understanding
Discovering Natural Parks on Wheels
Looking at discovering natural parks on wheels? There is nothing more substantial than the call of nature. It is the remedy for hectic schedules, where endless screens give way to fresh air and open trails,
All-Weather Exploration in New Forest
Adventure often means contending with unpredictable weather, from sudden rain showers to chilly, foggy mornings. The weather can change quickly, creating challenges for your outdoor plans and vehicle. Therefore, how should you prepare for an
Discover Hidden Trails for a Memorable Hiking Adventure
Want to discover hidden trails for a memorable hiking adventure? Explore the secluded paths of New Forest National Park for an unforgettable hiking experience. Navigate through ancient woodlands and open heathlands to uncover the park’s
A Guide to Camping, Fishing, and Embracing Nature
Venturing into untamed landscapes offers a rare sense of freedom, detaching you from daily routines. Imagine greeting the dawn surrounded by nature’s chorus, enveloped by foliage and open skies, with endless possibilities awaiting your discovery.