Natrix

The genus Natrix comprises a group of predominantly aquatic snakes belonging to the family Colubridae. These snakes are widely distributed and are often referred to as true water snakes. They are characterized by stout bodies, strongly keeled scales, and triangular heads.123

Natrix species are found in the Northern Hemisphere and primarily feed on fish and amphibians. While most Old World species lay eggs, New World species are viviparous, giving birth to live young. When handled, they may release a foul-smelling substance from scent glands and are known to bite freely, though they are nonvenomous. The common grass snake (Natrix natrix) is one species within this genus, found in Europe and western Asia. Some snakes, like the garter snake, can be toxic if eaten due to absorbing toxins from their prey, but are not venomous in the typical sense of injecting toxins.24