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  • Writer's pictureKevin Esser

One week in Croatia, part II

Lake Vrana -the biggest lake of Croatia- and its surrounding areas were proclaimed a Nature Park in 1999. This unique habitat is of inestimable value and is characterized by a high biodiversity. In addition to 249 registered bird species, there are also numerous reptiles.



Algyroides nigropunctatus - Blue-throated Keeled Lizard

Algyroides nigropunctatus - Blue-throated Keeled Lizard

The Blue-throated Keeled Lizard (Algyroides nigropunctatus) can be seen in rocky areas and stone walls.


Natrix tessellata - Dice Snake

Exceptionally beautiful Dice Snake: Natrix tessellata var. flavescens. The Croatian name is "Ribarica", which means "fisherwoman". They can swim & dive very well and they prey mainly on fish.


Melitaea didyma

I saw a couple of these handsome little creatures: Caterpillar of the Spotted Fritillary (Melitaea didyma).



Platyceps najadum - Dahl's Whip Snake

Dahl's Whip Snake (Platyceps najadum) is one of the fastest snakes, I have ever seen. Luckily, I was able to get pictures of this amazing snake.


Lacerta trilineata - Balkan Green Lizard

With about 50 cm (19.7 in) the Balkan Green Lizard (Lacerta trilineata) is by far the biggest lizard in Croatia. These "little dinosaurs" were a bit shyer than their smaller relatives.


Telescopus fallax - European Cat Snake

Telescopus fallax - European Cat Snake

At the very last day, just after dusk, I found the highlight of this trip: An European Cat Snake (Telescopus fallax) climbing in a stone wall of an old ruin.


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