Vol. 7 No. 1 (2012)
Short Note

Scavenging in the genus <em>Natrix</em>

Cesar Ayres
AHE

Published 2012-06-15

How to Cite

Ayres, C. (2012). Scavenging in the genus <em>Natrix</em>. Acta Herpetologica, 7(1), 171–174. https://doi.org/10.13128/Acta_Herpetol-10447

Abstract

Scavenging is reported as an unusual behaviour of snakes. However, it is likely more common than is supposed. Here I report the use of dead newts as prey source by water snakes of the genus Natrix at a dam in north-western Spain. Juveniles and adults viperine snakes (Natrix maura), and also an adult grass snake (Natrix natrix) were found feeding on newt carcasses.