Coronella

Coronella is a genus of snakes, family Colubridae, comprising two valid species commonly called smooth snakes, endemic to Europe, North Africa and West Asia. Members are relatively small snakes, rarely growing to more than 60 centimeters in total length, with round pupils, smooth scales covering an almost cylindrical body, and a head only slightly distinct from the neck; their teeth increase in size toward the rear of the mouth. The genus is terrestrial and secretive, feeding mainly on lizards, young snakes and small rodents, and while sometimes described as constrictors, Coronella species hold prey firmly in their coils for restraint rather than to kill it. The type species, Coronella austriaca, the smooth snake, is widespread across Europe and western Asia, while Coronella girondica, the southern smooth snake, is found in Mediterranean regions and North Africa.