Viperine Snake
Natrix maura
The Viperine Snake is a water snake, and is not venomous.
This species looks like an adder and behaves like one. It is known to strike like adder, but not bite. However, when in water, the Viperine Snake hunts its prey in the same manner as a grass snake.
Main threats
Aquatic pollution.
Distribution
Southwestern Europe and Northwestern Africa.
Favourite food
Fish and amphibians
Habitat
Rivers and lakes
Description
Lifespan: up to 25 years
Length: 85cm
Family facts
They are diurnal and are excellent swimmers, staying underwater for a considerable length of time or just resting in the water with their head protruding from the surface. They often scare people when they see them in the water when they are paddling or swimming but they are completely harmless.