Smooth snake
A species of Smooth snakes Scientific name : Coronella austriaca Genus : Smooth snakes
Smooth snake, A species of Smooth snakes
Scientific name: Coronella austriaca
Genus: Smooth snakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
Coronella austriaca (commonly known as a smooth snake) is a non-venomous colubrid species found in northern and central Europe, but also as far east as northern Iran. The European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL) currently recognizes three subspecies, including the typical form described here.
General Info
Lifespan
15-20 years
Diet
Smooth snake primarily subsists on small reptiles, particularly lizards and small snakes. Notably, it demonstrates a preference for consuming lizard eggs, showcasing a unique aspect of its feeding behavior.
Appearance
Smooth snake is a medium-sized snake with a slender body covered in smooth, glossy scales. Primarily light to dark brown, the snake is adorned with a distinctive zigzag pattern or uniform spots along its back. The underbelly presents a contrasting yellowish color. No significant difference exists due to age, gender, or subspecies. The reptile lacks any distinct appendages such as wings or horns.
Behavior
Smooth snake is a non-venomous, solitary reptile known best for its crepuscular activities. It has a distinctive hunting behavior, injecting venom into prey for digestion followed by ingestion whole. Smooth snake has a special reproductive behavior: females produce 'shelled' eggs internally and give live birth. Not territorial, smooth snake opts for hiding over direct confrontation, exploiting its natural camouflage to avoid predators.
Population
Decreasing
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Smooth snakes Species
Smooth snake 
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