Grass Snake

Name: Grass Snake

Scientific name: Natrix natrix

Category: Reptiles

Nature Stars: 50

What are nature stars?

About: Our largest snake, the Grass Snake can grow up to 1 metre long. Grass Snakes particularly like wetland habitats, but can also be found in dry grasslands and in gardens, especially those with a pond nearby. They will even breed in compost heaps. Like all reptiles, Grass Snakes hibernate, usually from October to April. During the summer, they are best looked for sunbathing near to favourite ponds.

How to identify: Usually greenish in colour, with a yellow collar and black neck patches. Can grow to up to 1 metre long! Often found near water and frequently swims.

Where: Widespread in England and Wales, but not in Scotland or Northern Ireland. Also absent from the Isles of Scilly and most of the Channel Islands

Natural Superpowers

• Predator: 80
• Agility: 70
• Rarity: 50
• Cute factor: 10
• Traveller: 50

Fantastic fact: Grass snakes are brilliant swimmers and will hunt frogs and even fish

Photograph credit: David Chamberlain