Reptiles
Dice Snake
Natrix tessellata
At the edge of a clear river, a dice snake slips beneath the surface and weaves between the stones, its chequered back hunting for small fish.
Overview
The dice snake, Natrix tessellata, is a Least Concern semi-aquatic snake of rivers, lakes, and ponds from central Europe through the Balkans and the Middle East to Central Asia and China. Its chequered pattern, fish-hunting habit, and play-dead defence make it one of the most specialised of the European water snakes.
A snake that plays dead
When flattened-body hissing fails, the dice snake goes limp with its mouth open, a convincing performance that discourages many predators.
Status
Least Concern overall, though some populations are declining.
Dice Snake: common questions
Why is it called the dice snake?
It is named for the dark squares on its olive to grey body, which form a pattern like the dots on dice.
Is the dice snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and rarely bites, though it is often mistaken for a viper.
What does the dice snake eat?
It feeds mostly on fish, which it hunts underwater, and also on amphibians.
Where is the dice snake found?
It lives in rivers, lakes, and ponds from central Europe through the Balkans and the Middle East to Central Asia and China.