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Smooth snake facts for kids

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Smooth snake
Schlingnatter.jpg
Conservation status
Scientific classification
CoronellaAustriacaIUCNver2020-1.png
Range of C. austriaca

The smooth snake (Coronella austriaca). is found in Britain, where it lives only in southern heathlands.

It is a non-venomous colubrid species found in northern and central Europe, and as far east as northern Iran. In contrast to many other snakes, their scales are flat (not keeled). This gives the snake a smooth texture to the touch, from which it gets its common name.

The smooth snake feeds on smaller animals, especially other reptiles. It subdues larger prey by constriction, although unlike true constrictors it does not actually kill by this method. It reproduces by laying eggs, which are buried in sand in a warm place.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Coronella austriaca para niños

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