{"id":18568,"date":"2026-05-04T20:51:46","date_gmt":"2026-05-04T18:51:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/karits.eu\/?p=18568"},"modified":"2026-05-04T20:55:23","modified_gmt":"2026-05-04T18:55:23","slug":"grass-snake-natrix-natrix-5","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/karits.eu\/index.php\/2026\/05\/04\/grass-snake-natrix-natrix-5\/","title":{"rendered":"Melanism in the Grass snake (Natrix natrix)"},"content":{"rendered":"<script type=\"text\/plain\" data-tcf=\"waiting-for-consent\" data-id=\"7662\" data-bid=\"1\" data-placement=\"15312\">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<\/script>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-button is-style-outline is-style-outline--1\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link has-vivid-red-color has-text-color wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/37424841\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Download full size image<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf11 Melanism in the Grass Snake (<em>Natrix natrix<\/em>)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While the typical Grass Snake is easily recognized by its olive-green scales and iconic yellow &#8220;collar,&#8221; nature occasionally produces a version that looks like it was forged in a bed of charcoal. <strong>Melanism<\/strong>\u2014a genetic mutation resulting in an excess of black pigment\u2014creates a striking, jet-black variant that is both a biological marvel and a survival gamble.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\uddec What is Melanism?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Melanism is the opposite of albinism. It occurs when a genetic mutation causes the over-deposition of <strong>melanin<\/strong> in the skin or scales. In <em>Natrix natrix<\/em>, this transformation is often &#8220;total,&#8221; meaning the snake loses its characteristic yellow or white collar and its pale belly, becoming a uniform, velvety black.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The &#8220;Carbonaria&#8221; Form:<\/strong> In older biological texts, these black individuals were often referred to as <em>Natrix natrix<\/em> var. <em>carbonaria<\/em>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Juvenile vs. Adult:<\/strong> Most melanistic grass snakes are born dark, but in some cases, the melanism intensifies as the snake matures and sheds its skin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf21\ufe0f The &#8220;Thermal Advantage&#8221; (The Upside)<\/h3><script type=\"text\/plain\" data-tcf=\"waiting-for-consent\" data-id=\"9790\" data-bid=\"1\" data-placement=\"15313\">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<\/script>\n\n\n\n<p>In the cold-blooded world of reptiles, being black has one massive perk: <strong>thermoregulation<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Faster Heating:<\/strong> According to the laws of physics, darker surfaces absorb thermal radiation more efficiently. A black snake can reach its optimal hunting temperature much faster than an olive-green one.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Extended Activity:<\/strong> This allows melanistic snakes to emerge earlier in the morning, stay out later in the evening, and potentially remain active later into the autumn. This is why melanism is often more common in <strong>high-altitude<\/strong> or <strong>northern coastal<\/strong> populations.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83e\udd85 The &#8220;Predation Penalty&#8221; (The Downside)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If being black makes you a &#8220;solar powered&#8221; super-hunter, why aren&#8217;t all grass snakes black? The answer lies in <strong>camouflage<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Visual Standout:<\/strong> The Grass Snake\u2019s usual olive-grey mottling is perfect for disappearing into reeds and dappled forest light. A solid black snake stands out starkly against green grass, making it an easy target for birds of prey like buzzards and herons.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Loss of the &#8220;Collar&#8221;:<\/strong> The yellow collar of a normal grass snake may act as &#8220;disruptive coloration,&#8221; breaking up the snake&#8217;s outline. Without it, the snake\u2019s shape is very easy for a predator to recognize.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83c\udf0d Where is it Found?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Melanism in <em>Natrix natrix<\/em> is generally rare (often cited at <strong>less than 1%<\/strong> of the general population), but &#8220;hotspots&#8221; exist:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><thead><tr><td><strong>Region Type<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Prevalence<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>Why?<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td><strong>Mainland Europe<\/strong><\/td><td>Very Rare<\/td><td>High predation pressure keeps the mutation suppressed.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Alpine Regions<\/strong><\/td><td>Occasional<\/td><td>The thermal benefit of absorbing sun in cold air outweighs the risk of being seen.<\/td><\/tr><tr><td><strong>Island Populations<\/strong><\/td><td>Higher<\/td><td>The &#8220;Founder Effect&#8221; (limited gene pool) can make the trait more common if few predators are present.<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\ud83d\udc0d Behavior and Ecology<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Interestingly, research suggests that melanistic individuals might behave differently than their green counterparts to compensate for their visibility:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shyness:<\/strong> Some studies indicate that black grass snakes are more &#8220;skittish&#8221; and quicker to retreat to water or thick cover, likely an evolutionary response to being more visible to predators.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Size Advantage:<\/strong> Because they can spend more time at optimal temperatures, they often grow faster and reach larger adult sizes than their non-melanistic peers, which can lead to better reproductive success (more eggs).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">\u26a0\ufe0f A Note on Identification<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>It is easy to mistake a melanistic Grass Snake for other species. If you spot a black snake in Europe, here is how to tell:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The Eyes:<\/strong> Grass snakes have <strong>round pupils<\/strong>. The venomous European Adder (<em>Vipera berus<\/em>), which also has a melanistic form, has <strong>vertical, slit-like pupils<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Scales:<\/strong> Grass snakes have &#8220;keeled&#8221; scales (they have a ridge down the middle, making them feel rough).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Head:<\/strong> The Grass Snake has large, plate-like scales on its head, whereas the Adder has many small, fragmented scales.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p><strong>Peer Observation:<\/strong> Finding a melanistic grass snake in the wild is like finding a shiny Pok\u00e9mon. It\u2019s a rare glimpse into how genetics can trade-off between the need for energy (heat) and the need for safety (camouflage). If you find one in 2026, consider yourself incredibly lucky!<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Deep Overview: Grass Snake (<em>Natrix natrix<\/em>)<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The <strong>grass snake<\/strong> (<em>Natrix natrix<\/em>), also known as the <strong>ringed snake<\/strong> or <strong>water snake<\/strong>, is a <strong>non-venomous, semi-aquatic reptile<\/strong> found across <strong>Europe and parts of Asia<\/strong>. It is known for its <strong>distinctive yellow collar<\/strong>, <strong>docile nature<\/strong>, and <strong>excellent swimming ability<\/strong>. Despite being harmless to humans, it often mimics venomous snakes as a defense mechanism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Taxonomy &amp; Classification<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Kingdom:<\/strong> Animalia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Phylum:<\/strong> Chordata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Class:<\/strong> Reptilia<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Order:<\/strong> Squamata<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Family:<\/strong> Colubridae<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Genus:<\/strong> Natrix<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Species:<\/strong> <em>Natrix natrix<\/em><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Common Names:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Grass snake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ringed snake<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Water snake<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Physical Description<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Length: <strong>70\u2013120 cm (27\u201347 in)<\/strong> (some reach 2 meters)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Females are typically <strong>larger<\/strong> than males<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coloration &amp; Markings:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Olive-green, brown, or grayish body<\/strong> with dark spots along the sides<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Distinctive yellow, white, or orange collar<\/strong> around the neck (often bordered by black)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dark round pupils<\/strong> and a slender head<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Scales keeled<\/strong>, giving a slightly rough texture<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Body Shape:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Slender and elongated body<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Round snout, adapted for grabbing slippery prey<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Distribution &amp; Habitat<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Geographic Range:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Widespread across <strong>Europe, western Asia, and parts of North Africa<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Found in countries like <strong>UK, Germany, France, Russia, Turkey, and Iran<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Preferred Habitat:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Near freshwater sources<\/strong> like ponds, lakes, rivers, and marshes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Also found in <strong>meadows, forests, grasslands, and gardens<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Prefers <strong>humid environments<\/strong> but can venture into dry areas<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Behavior &amp; Adaptations<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Diurnal (active during the day):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hunts and basks in the sun during daylight hours<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Excellent Swimmer:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Can <strong>dive and stay submerged<\/strong> for several minutes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hibernation:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hibernates in <strong>burrows, tree roots, and compost heaps<\/strong> during winter (October\u2013April)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Defense Mechanisms:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Plays dead (thanatosis)<\/strong>: Rolls onto its back, hangs its tongue out, and secretes a foul-smelling liquid<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hisses and flattens its body<\/strong> to appear larger<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Can release a musky odor<\/strong> from anal glands<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rarely bites<\/strong>, prefers to escape rather than attack<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Diet &amp; Hunting Techniques<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Carnivorous (primarily amphibians):<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Main diet: <strong>Frogs, toads, newts<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Also eats <strong>fish, small mammals, birds, and invertebrates<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hunting Strategy:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Uses <strong>speed and stealth<\/strong> to catch prey<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Swallows prey whole, as it has <strong>no venom or constriction ability<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Reproduction &amp; Life Cycle<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Breeding Season:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mating occurs in <strong>spring (April\u2013June)<\/strong> after hibernation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Egg-Laying:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Oviparous (lays eggs)<\/strong>\u2014unlike many other European snakes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Females lay <strong>10\u201340 eggs<\/strong> in <strong>warm, decaying vegetation<\/strong> (compost heaps, manure piles)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Eggs hatch in <strong>August\u2013September<\/strong> after <strong>8\u201310 weeks<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lifespan:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Typically <strong>10\u201315 years in the wild<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can live longer in captivity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Predators &amp; Threats<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Natural Predators:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Birds of prey (hawks, buzzards, herons)<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Foxes, badgers, wild boars<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Larger snakes and mammals<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Human-Related Threats:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Habitat destruction<\/strong> (wetland drainage, urbanization)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Road mortality<\/strong> (frequently killed by vehicles)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Misidentification as venomous snakes<\/strong> leads to unnecessary killing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Conservation Status:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Listed as &#8220;Least Concern&#8221; (LC) by the IUCN<\/strong>, but populations are declining in some regions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Protected by law<\/strong> in many European countries (e.g., UK, Germany)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Ecological Importance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Controls amphibian populations:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Helps regulate <strong>frogs and toads<\/strong>, maintaining ecological balance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Prey for larger predators:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Part of the <strong>food web<\/strong> in freshwater and woodland ecosystems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Indicator species:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A healthy grass snake population indicates <strong>good water quality and habitat health<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Relationship with Humans<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Harmless to Humans:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Non-venomous and rarely bites<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Common in Gardens &amp; Farms:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Helps <strong>control pests like frogs and rodents<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Superstitions &amp; Myths:<\/strong>\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Some cultures wrongly associate it with <strong>venomous snakes<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In folklore, it is sometimes seen as a <strong>guardian of water sources<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Fun Facts<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Can swim across large lakes and slow-moving rivers<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Fakes death in the most dramatic way<\/strong>, even emitting a rotting smell to fool predators<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Unlike vipers, it has round pupils<\/strong>, helping to distinguish it from venomous species<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Females are significantly larger than males<\/strong>, an uncommon trait in many snake species<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The <em>Natrix natrix<\/em> is a <strong>fascinating, adaptable snake<\/strong> that thrives in <strong>wetlands, woodlands, and grasslands<\/strong>. Its <strong>non-aggressive nature, unique defense mechanisms, and ecological role<\/strong> make it an essential part of European wildlife. Though <strong>harmless to humans<\/strong>, it faces threats from habitat destruction and human persecution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<style id=\"bwg-style-0\">    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails {      width: 1254px;              justify-content: center;        margin:0 auto !important;              background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0.00);            padding-left: 4px;      padding-top: 4px;      max-width: 100%;            }        #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item {    justify-content: flex-start;      max-width: 250px;          }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item a {       margin-right: 4px;       margin-bottom: 4px;    }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item0 {      padding: 0px;            background-color:rgba(0,0,0, 0.30);      border: 5px none #FFFFFF;      opacity: 1.00;      border-radius: 0;      box-shadow: ;    }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 img {      max-height: none;      max-width: none;      padding: 0 !important;    }         @media only screen and (min-width: 480px) {\t\t#bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 img {\t\t\t-webkit-transition: all .3s; transition: all .3s;\t\t}\t\t#bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 img:hover {\t\t\t-ms-transform: scale(1.08);\t\t\t-webkit-transform: scale(1.08);\t\t\ttransform: scale(1.08);\t\t}\t\t      }\t    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-item1 {      padding-top: 56%;    }        #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-title2,    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-ecommerce2 {      color: #323A45;      font-family: Ubuntu;      font-size: 16px;      font-weight: bold;      padding: 5px;      text-shadow: ;      max-height: 100%;    }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-thumb-description span {    color: #323A45;    font-family: Ubuntu;    font-size: 12px;    max-height: 100%;    word-wrap: break-word;    }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-play-icon2 {      font-size: 32px;    }    #bwg_container1_0 #bwg_container2_0 .bwg-container-0.bwg-standard-thumbnails .bwg-ecommerce2 {      font-size: 19.2px;      color: #323A45;    }    <\/style>    <div id=\"bwg_container1_0\"         class=\"bwg_container bwg_thumbnail bwg_thumbnails \"         data-right-click-protection=\"0\"         data-bwg=\"0\"         data-scroll=\"0\"         data-gallery-type=\"thumbnails\"         data-gallery-view-type=\"thumbnails\"         data-current-url=\"\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18568\"         data-lightbox-url=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php?action=GalleryBox&#038;current_view=0&#038;gallery_id=4&#038;tag=0&#038;theme_id=2&#038;shortcode_id=328&#038;sort_by=order&#038;order_by=asc&#038;current_url=%2Findex.php%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F18568\"         data-gallery-id=\"4\"         data-popup-width=\"800\"         data-popup-height=\"500\"         data-is-album=\"gallery\"         data-buttons-position=\"bottom\">      <div id=\"bwg_container2_0\">             <div id=\"ajax_loading_0\" class=\"bwg_loading_div_1\">      <div class=\"bwg_loading_div_2\">        <div class=\"bwg_loading_div_3\">          <div id=\"loading_div_0\" class=\"bwg_spider_ajax_loading\">          <\/div>        <\/div>      <\/div>    <\/div>            <form id=\"gal_front_form_0\"              class=\"bwg-hidden\"              method=\"post\"              action=\"#\"              data-current=\"0\"              data-shortcode-id=\"328\"              data-gallery-type=\"thumbnails\"              data-gallery-id=\"4\"              data-tag=\"0\"              data-album-id=\"0\"              data-theme-id=\"2\"              data-ajax-url=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php?action=bwg_frontend_data\">          <div id=\"bwg_container3_0\" class=\"bwg-background bwg-background-0\">                <div data-max-count=\"5\"         data-thumbnail-width=\"250\"         data-bwg=\"0\"         data-gallery-id=\"4\"         data-lightbox-url=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-admin\/admin-ajax.php?action=GalleryBox&amp;current_view=0&amp;gallery_id=4&amp;tag=0&amp;theme_id=2&amp;shortcode_id=328&amp;sort_by=order&amp;order_by=asc&amp;current_url=%2Findex.php%2Fwp-json%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fposts%2F18568\"         id=\"bwg_thumbnails_0\"         class=\"bwg-container-0 bwg-thumbnails bwg-standard-thumbnails bwg-container bwg-border-box\">            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"331\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"331\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"308.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/5639.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/5639.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara)\"                   title=\"Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"332\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"332\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/frog-4844008_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/frog-4844008_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Thailand frog\"                   title=\"Thailand frog\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"333\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"333\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"317.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/pexels-erik-karits-2093459-3826317.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/pexels-erik-karits-2093459-3826317.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Emma gray`s forest lizard (Calotes emma)\"                   title=\"Emma gray`s forest lizard (Calotes emma)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"334\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"334\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/5487.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/5487.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Common Frog (Rana temporaria)\"                   title=\"Common Frog (Rana temporaria)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"335\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"335\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/rock-4902937_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/rock-4902937_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Agama Lizard\"                   title=\"Agama Lizard\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"336\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"336\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/natrix-natrix-4811446_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/natrix-natrix-4811446_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Grass snake (Natrix natrix)\"                   title=\"Grass snake (Natrix natrix)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"337\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"337\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/asian-water-monitor-4897165_1280.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/asian-water-monitor-4897165_1280.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"asian-water-monitor-4897165_1280\"                   title=\"asian-water-monitor-4897165_1280\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"338\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"338\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/golden-tree-snake-4834282_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/golden-tree-snake-4834282_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Golden tree snake, Chrysopelea ornata\"                   title=\"Golden tree snake, Chrysopelea ornata\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"339\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"339\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/frog-7957296_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/frog-7957296_1920.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Frog, Pond, Water\"                   title=\"Frog, Pond, Water\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"340\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"340\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/IMG_3131_a.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/IMG_3131_a.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum)\"                   title=\"Eurasian pygmy owl (Glaucidium passerinum)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"341\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"341\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/4387.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/4387.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Thailand frog\"                   title=\"Thailand frog\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"342\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"342\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/1022.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/1022.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Stellagama\"                   title=\"Stellagama\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"343\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"343\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"329.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/571.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/571.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara)\"                   title=\"Viviparous lizard (Zootoca vivipara)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"344\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"344\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/521.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/521.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Golden tree snake (Chrysopelea ornata)\"                   title=\"Golden tree snake (Chrysopelea ornata)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"345\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"345\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/64.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/64.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"64Grass snake (Natrix natrix)\"                   title=\"64Grass snake (Natrix natrix)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"346\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"346\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"336.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/2950.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/2950.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Emma gray&#039;s forest lizard (Calotes emma)\"                   title=\"Emma gray&#039;s forest lizard (Calotes emma)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"347\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"347\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/357.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/357.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Asian water monitor (Varanus salvador)\"                   title=\"Asian water monitor (Varanus salvador)\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"348\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"348\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/3474.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/3474.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"Ocean turtle\"                   title=\"Ocean turtle\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"349\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"349\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/204.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/204.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"204\"                   title=\"204\" \/>            <\/div>            <div class=\"\">                                                      <\/div>          <\/div>        <\/div>                        <\/a>              <\/div>            <div class=\"bwg-item\">        <a class=\"bwg-a  bwg_lightbox\"  data-image-id=\"350\" data-elementor-open-lightbox=\"no\">                <div class=\"bwg-item0 \">          <div class=\"bwg-item1 \">            <div class=\"bwg-item2\">              <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"skip-lazy bwg_standart_thumb_img_0 \"                   data-id=\"350\"                   data-width=\"500.00\"                   data-height=\"333.00\"                   data-src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/40.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   src=\"https:\/\/karits.eu\/wp-content\/uploads\/photo-gallery\/imported_from_media_libray\/thumb\/40.jpg?bwg=1718312115\"                   alt=\"40\"                   title=\"40\" \/>            <\/div>            <div 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jQuery(\"#bwg_container1_0\").height() ) {             bwg_main_ready(jQuery(\"#bwg_container1_0\"));            }          }        });      }    <\/script>    \n<p>Views: 32<\/p><script type=\"text\/plain\" data-tcf=\"waiting-for-consent\" data-id=\"7662\" data-bid=\"1\" 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