Natrix natrix - common grass snake.
This is one of the most widespread species of snakes in Europe. It is easily recognizable by the two yellowish half-moon shapes at the back of the head. It is a non-venomous species that will always run when faced, never tries to bite and if not left alone will spread a bad smelling secretion or "play dead". Unfortunately it is killed on sight by most people in Romania. This is because of religious beliefs and the primitive education in my country. Furthermore, the grass snake and all reptiles in Romania suffer from habitat degradation and loss, their numbers going down with every passing year. My mission and the mission of all herpetologists in Romania (and around the world) is to educate people on the importance and beauty of these reptiles so they will learn not to kill them but live side-by-side with these animals that have a precise role in the ecosystem, gather as much information as possible so we can understand nature and the whole discipline of biology and learn how to keep what we have.
Reptiles are the result of over 350 million years of evolution and snakes have also been on earth many millions of years before us, so all of them deserve some respect.
IF THERE WERE NO REPTLES (as some would be happy) THERE WOULD BE NO US! Think about it!!!