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Florida banded water snake
A species of Water snakes Scientific name : Nerodia fasciata pictiventris Genus : Water snakes
Florida banded water snake, A species of Water snakes
Scientific name: Nerodia fasciata pictiventris
Genus: Water snakes
Content
Description General Info
![Florida banded water snake (Nerodia fasciata pictiventris)](/wiki-image/1080/152378344418050048.jpeg)
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Description
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Florida banded water snake is predominantly known for its aquatic habits, often seen in freshwater habitats such as marshes and swamps. It feeds primarily on amphibians and fish, displaying a sit-and-wait hunting strategy. The female of the species exhibits ovoviviparity, giving birth to live young - a unique adaptation among reptiles.
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General Info
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Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Florida banded water snake primarily feeds on fish, employing a sit-and-wait hunting strategy. While finned prey forms its staple, the species occasionally opts for amphibians and smaller reptiles, ensuring dietary diversity.
Appearance
Florida banded water snake is a medium-sized, water snake with a robust, elongated body covered in keeled, scaly skin. Its coloration features a combination of chocolate-brown stripes alternating with a lighter tan to cream background. Juveniles exhibit a red-brown tail which gradually fades as the snake matures. No significant differences in appearance between genders or subspecies are observed.
Behavior
Florida banded water snake is a mostly solitary, diurnal snake known for unusual aquatic behavior. Key activities include swimming and hunting in both standing and flowing freshwater bodies. This species is non-territorial but showcases characteristic defensive postures when threatened. It's opportunistic, preying mostly on amphibians and fish, capturing its prey through ambush in its aquatic habitat.
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Scientific Classification
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Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Water snakes Species
Florida banded water snake