The Checkered Water Snake • An elusive and fascinating creature in the freshwaters of Israel

The spotted water snake, one of the most elusive animals in Israeli nature, attracts attention thanks to its unique appearance and fascinating behavior. It is a non-venomous snake that lives in freshwater sources in Israel, and despite its seemingly frightening appearance, it is actually cute and intriguing, and constitutes an important part of the aquatic ecosystem.

A snake that looks like a viper but lives in water ► Watch

The spotted water snake is a relative of the vipers and is similar in length. Those who are not familiar with snakes may be confused and think that this is a common viper from the Land of Israel, but the significant difference is that the water snake actually lives in the water. Although a viper can also swim, it does not live in water. The spotted water snake swallows its prey whole, including frogs, toads, and fish. The female lays her eggs under moist, hollow sea rocks, and has also been observed laying them in moist caves on the sides of water sources. On average, the female lays about twelve eggs, according to certain observations.

Life cycle and special abilities

After an incubation period of about fifty days, the young hatch and feed on young fish. The next generation of young snakes reaches sexual maturity about two years later. These water snakes are able to hold their breath for up to 38 minutes, but in their daily routine they also come up every 15 minutes to take a breath of air. Their vision is adapted to activity both above and below water, thanks to a special membrane on their eyes. They also locate their food using their forked tongue, known as the Jacobson's organ, which works both on land and underwater.

A non-venomous snake that bites – it is recommended to keep your distance.

Although the banded water snakes are not venomous, in stressful situations they bite hard. Therefore, it is recommended not to approach any snake. There have also been cases and observations in the Sea of ​​Galilee, in streams and springs, of vipers swimming in the water, so the rule is simple: don't get close, don't get hurt.
These snakes are sometimes chased away by fishermen who see them as competitors who cause damage to the fish. This is a beautiful and shy animal that is active mainly in the summer months, which are also its breeding season. In the advanced era of underwater photography, water snakes show curiosity and approach the camera to check what it is, but photographing them underwater is a matter of a lot of experience and luck. Israeli nature, even in freshwater, is wonderful and should be enjoyed with maximum respect and caution.