The grass snake or ringed snake (Natrix natrix) owes its name to the yellow spots behind the head, that sometimes form a ring-shape around the neck. Ringed snakes are found throughout Europe, North Africa and parts of Asia. They like to stay by the water (rivers, ponds, ponds), where they can find their favorite food: small fish, frogs and other amphibians. To catch them, the ringed snake can even swim - they can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes! Hence the Latin name "natrix", which means "hydra" or water snake - like the sea monster in Greek mythology. But don't be afraid: ringed snakes are not poisonous to humans and don't attack very often. On the contrary!
If they feel threatened, ringed snakes prefer to pull a special trick: they fall into "catalepsy" - they play dead! And they do so with dedication: they lie upside down on their backs, open their mouths, and as icing on the cake they emit a horrible smell. Not a heron, fox, badger, or bird of prey that wants a bite of that! And as soon as the danger has passed, they run away as quickly as possible. Ringed snakes can live up to 20 years, of which they spend almost half in hibernation (every year from September to March). From spring onward, the snake actively looks for a partner. The female lays an average of 20 eggs, which hatch after two or three months. The young are immediately independent and leave the hatchery immediately to find their own food.
Natrix natrix is on the Belgian Red List and is protected on a European level. She stands far from the dangerous image we often have of snakes: she's discreet and prefers to hide from humans. But soon you will be able to meet her in the brand new Gallery “Living Planet”!
In the meantime, check out this incredible 3D-model of the grass snake’s skull !
Grass Snake Skull Anatomy by Royal Belgian Institute of Natural Sciences on Sketchfab
Thanks @biodivlibrary for yet another wonderful drawing!