Marisia - Maros Megyei Múzeum Évkönyve 36/1. (2016)
Zoology
Preliminary study regarding the distribution, biology and ecology of Natrix tesselata (Laurenti 1768) in the Republic of Moldova Hatching of eggs takes place in late July and in the first and second decade of August (Photo 5). The snakes hatchings have 14—16 cm in length. Photo 5: Eggs hatched by Natrix tessellata. Towards the end of active period and before the hibernation, snakes stop feeding and gather in wintering sites. As temperatures allow, snakes can be seen near the hibernation dens doing sunbathing. No activity was recorded for Nartix tessellata species in February, even if temperatures can get up to 25 °C. Snakes are eaten by herons, but the biggest threat to their populations are the human and his activity. Due to superstition well hardened by centuries among natives, snakes are mostly destroyed directly by humans or die on the roads in their migration path towards watersheds, being run over by transport (Photo 6). Even if the species Natrix tessellata today is not in danger, for the species protection already at present it is necessary to take some measures. Photo 6: Snakes destroyed by humans. 115
