Northern redbelly snake
A species of American brown snakes Scientific name : Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata Genus : American brown snakes
Northern redbelly snake, A species of American brown snakes
Scientific name: Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata
Genus: American brown snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sophie_roy , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Northern redbelly snake is a non-venomous snake species predominantly endemic to North America. Ecologically, it mainly occupies the understory of wetland forests, displaying a semi-fossorial behavior and thriving in damp, leaf-litter areas. This species adopts a unique defensive strategy against predators, often feigning death by flipping onto its back and displaying its brightly colored belly. It presents a fascinating case of ovoviviparity, incubating eggs within its body until they're ready to hatch, which is advantageous for survival in variable climates.
General Info
Lifespan
4-6 years
Diet
Northern redbelly snake primarily subsists on small invertebrates, eating both terrestrial and aquatic species such as earthworms, slugs, and amphipods. Ingestion often involves the constriction and subsequent swallowing of the prey.
Appearance
Northern redbelly snake is a comparatively small snake, generally averaging 25-35 cm in length, endowed with a cylindrical body shape covered in smooth scales. The colouration is mainly brown or grey, adorned with a distinctive pattern of three faint light stripes along its back. Young individuals typically show brighter colors. No visible horns, wings, or similar features are present, and no significant gender-based differences in appearance have been observed.
Behavior
Northern redbelly snake shows nocturnal and secretive tendencies, typically remaining hidden under leaf litter or loose rocks. Predominantly a solitary species, it bears non-aggressive traits, showing little conflict over territory. Feeding relies mainly on a diet of soft-bodied invertebrates. During cold seasons, it exhibits brumation, a form of hibernation common among reptiles.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
American brown snakes Species
Northern redbelly snake 
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