Dice Snake

ribarica · Natrix tessellata

reptilecommon

A non-venomous, highly aquatic snake of the clear rivers, hunting fish underwater. Often seen basking on rocks along the Una, Neretva and Trebižat before slipping into the current.

Identification & best seen

Up to ~1 m; grey-brown with a checkerboard of dark blotches; narrow head; almost always near water.

Habitat & where to see

Clean rivers, lakes and karst springs.

Fun fact

It can stay submerged for many minutes, ambushing small fish among the stones.