Reptile · Colubrid
Viperine water snake care guide
Natrix maura
The viperine water snake is a intermediate-level colubrid from SW Europe, NW Africa. Adults reach 50–80 cm and live 10–15 years in captivity. Highly aquatic; needs a large water area. Solitary.
- Enclosure 90 × 45 × 45 cm
- Temp Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C
- Humidity 60–80%
How much does a viperine water snake cost in Canada?
Viperine water snake quick facts
- Skill level
- Intermediate
- Adult size
- 50–80 cm
- Lifespan
- 10–15 years
- Activity
- Diurnal
- Native range
- SW Europe, NW Africa
- Minimum enclosure
- 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 in, ≈ 48 US gal)
- Housing
- Best kept alone.
- Temperature
- Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C
- Humidity
- 60–80%
- UVB
- Recommended
- Diet
- Piscivore – fish, frogs
- Bioactive style
- Semi-aquatic (paludarium)
Viperine water snake enclosure & bioactive setup
Give one adult at least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (35 × 18 × 18 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 viperine water snake eat?
Piscivore – fish, frogs. Feed small fish every 4–6 days.
Handling, temperament & health
Hisses and mimics a viper but is harmless.
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 viperine water snake bioactive
Quantities are for one minimum-size enclosure (90 × 45 × 45 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
Viperine water snake FAQ
Is the viperine water snake good for beginners?
The viperine water snake is best for keepers with some experience (intermediate). Hisses and mimics a viper but is harmless.
What size enclosure does a viperine water snake need?
At least 90 × 45 × 45 cm (about 35 × 18 × 18 inches, roughly 48 US gallons) for one adult. Best kept alone.
How much does a viperine water snake cost in Canada?
Typically $100–250 CAD to buy, about $550–1040 CAD for a complete bioactive enclosure, and $150–300 CAD a year to keep.
What temperature and humidity does a viperine water snake need?
Temperature: Warm 27–29°C, cool 20°C. Humidity: 60–80%.
What does a viperine water snake eat?
Piscivore – fish, frogs. Feed small fish every 4–6 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.