Ringed snake
A species of Grass snakes Scientific name : Natrix natrix astreptophora Genus : Grass snakes
Ringed snake, A species of Grass snakes
Scientific name: Natrix natrix astreptophora
Genus: Grass snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By poblado_verde_en_accion , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Ringed snake showcases an exemplary behavioral adaptation through its aquatic lifestyle favoring riverine habitats. It is identifiable by its diurnal activity pattern and non-specific diet, manifested predominantly by devouring amphibians, a behavior offering it a key role in the biomass transfer across aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Its highly variable reproduction strategy with fecundity linked to female body size makes it a fascinating subject in ecological studies.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Ringed snake is predominantly piscivorous, with a predilection for fish species like gobies and stone loaches. However, it also consumes amphibians such as frogs, and occasionally invertebrates.
Appearance
Ringed snake is a medium-sized snake with a slender body wrapped in smooth, glossy skin. Its coloration varies from greenish-gray to brown, often sporting dark, intricate crossbands. The ventral side tends to be lighter, sometimes with a checkered pattern. This subspecies lacks significant variation in appearance between different ages, sexes, or geographic populations.
Behavior
Ringed snake is primarily nocturnal, often seen actively foraging for food or basking at night. They are non-venomous, relying on constriction to subdue prey. Ringed snake is known for its unique mating behavior, forming 'mating balls' wherein multiple males compete for a single female. They exhibit territorial behaviors, and are largely non-aggressive unless threatened. During winter, they undergo brumation, a form of hibernation, in communal dens for survival.
Photo By poblado_verde_en_accion , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Grass snakes Species
Ringed snake