Diadophis punctatus stictogenys
A species of Ring-necked snake Scientific name : Diadophis punctatus stictogenys Genus : Ring-necked snake
Diadophis punctatus stictogenys, A species of Ring-necked snake
Scientific name: Diadophis punctatus stictogenys
Genus: Ring-necked snake
Content
Description General Info
Photo By jack_riley , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Categorized under the species diadophis punctatus stictogenys, this animal boasts fascinating ecological behaviors. Observed often during the twilight hours, it exhibits crepuscular activity and demonstrates considerable adaptability to diverse environments. Unique to this non-venomous snake, it has the ability to play 'dead' as a remarkable survival strategy. Its diet predominantly comprising of slugs and salamanders, enforces its role within the ecosystem.
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
Diadophis punctatus stictogenys primarily feasts on small invertebrates like slugs and earthworms, making it an opportunistic hunter. The species has a preference for soft-bodied prey, particularly favoring gastropods.
Appearance
Diadophis punctatus stictogenys is a small, slender, cylindrical snake with smooth, glossy scales. Its color ranges from black to grayish-blue, with irregularly spaced rings or spots of bright yellow on the head, neck, and anterior part of its body. It has a yellow belly, correlating with the yellowing on its back. It lacks distinct modifications like horns or wings and exhibits no significant sexual dimorphism.
Behavior
Diadophis punctatus stictogenys is a solitary species with secretive habits, spending most of its time under logs or rocks in various habitats. Notably, it exhibits unusual tail-coiling behavior when threatened, which helps to divert prospective predators' attention away from their vulnerable body. Its primarily diurnal, having an active period during daylight hours, often hunting for small invertebrates.
Photo By jack_riley , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dipsadinae Genus
Ring-necked snake Species
Diadophis punctatus stictogenys