Observe and photograph a species in its natural habitat
Learn where and when to observe a species in the wild, how to recognize it in the field, and what habitats it lives in. Get photography tips adapted to its behavior and capture stunning images without disturbing the animal. For full details, open the complete profile in the WildlifePhotographer app.
Dice snake
Scientific name: Natrix tessellata

IUCN Status: Least Concern
Family: COLUBRIDAE
Group: Reptiles
Shyness: Suspicious
Safe distance: 3 m
Breeding season / Courtship: 01.05–31.07
Gestation: 60–70 jours
Births: 01.07-31.08
Habitat:
Rivers, lakes, marshes
Description:
The dice snake, Natrix tessellata, is a medium-sized semi-aquatic snake, typically measuring between 70 and 100 cm. It has a slender body with a distinctive checkerboard pattern on its back, consisting of dark spots on a lighter background. Its coloration ranges from gray to brown, sometimes with greenish hues. It is often found near freshwater bodies, such as rivers and lakes, where it primarily feeds on fish and amphibians. Although non-venomous and harmless to humans, it can emit an unpleasant odor when threatened.
Recommended lens:
>=Macro
Photography tips:
To photograph the dice snake, focus on areas near water where it is often active. Use a macro lens to capture the details of its checkerboard pattern. Approach slowly to avoid scaring it, and be ready to take shots quickly as it can move abruptly. Natural morning or afternoon light is ideal to highlight its colors. If possible, use a tripod to stabilize your camera and achieve sharp images.
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