Reptile · Colubrid
Dice snake care guide
Natrix tessellata
The dice snake is a intermediate-level colubrid from Central Europe to Central Asia. Adults reach 60–100 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Highly aquatic; give a large water area and winter cooling. Solitary.
- Enclosure 120 × 60 × 60 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a dice snake cost in Canada?
Dice snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 60–100 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- Central Europe to Central Asia
- Minimum enclosure
- 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 in, ≈ 114 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Piscivore – fish
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Dice snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (47 × 24 × 24 inches). Best kept alone. This species suits a semi-aquatic (paludarium) bioactive build.
- Leaf litter2 cm
- Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix8 cm
- Drainage – clay bio balls4 cm
Quantities assume about half the floor is land. The water half needs a filter and regular partial water changes.
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C. Humidity: 60–80%. UVB: Recommended.
What does a dice snake eat?
Piscivore – fish. Feed small fish every 5–7 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Musks heavily but rarely bites.
Health watch: Watch for blister disease and thiamine deficiency.
Cleaning & maintenance schedule
Daily
- Check water and air temperature; feed according to species.
Weekly
- Change 20–30% of the water with dechlorinated water.
- Rinse filter sponge in old tank water (never tap water) as needed.
Monthly
- Top up leaf litter on land; prune plants at the waterline.
Yearly
- Service the pump/filter fully.
Recommended for a dice snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (120 × 60 × 60 cm).
Clay Bio Balls
Drainage layer, 4 cm
Jurassic ABG Terrarium Mix
Bioactive soil layer, 8 cm
Almond Leaves Dried 15/Pack
Leaf litter – food and cover for the clean-up crew
Fresh Sphagnum Moss Container
Moss for humidity pockets and planting
Malaysian Drift Wood
Bridges water and land; easy exit from the water
Cork Bark Flats
Shelter on the land section
Dice snake FAQ
Is the dice snake good for beginners?
The dice snake is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Musks heavily but rarely bites.
What size enclosure does a dice snake need?
At least 120 × 60 × 60 cm (about 47 × 24 × 24 inches, roughly 114 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a dice snake cost in Canada?
Typically $100–250 CAD to buy, about $840–1550 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $200–350 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a dice snake need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a dice snake eat?
Piscivore – fish. Feed small fish every 5–7 days.
Similar species
This care sheet is general guidance from One Bioactive, not veterinary advice. Needs vary with age, locality and individual animals – confirm with your breeder and an exotics vet. Prices are typical Canadian ranges in CAD and change over time.