Santa cruz garter snake
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis atratus atratus Genus : Garter snakes
Santa cruz garter snake, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis atratus atratus
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By acastelein , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Santa cruz garter snake is a notable herpetofauna due to its capacity to thrive in both terrestrial and aquatic environments, demonstrating fascinating diversification among reptiles. This species exhibits an intriguing feeding behavior, preying predominantly on amphibians that, though toxic to many predators, they tolerate. Simultaneously, santa cruz garter snake utilises an ingenious defensive mechanism, often feigning death when threatened, confounding potential predators.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Santa cruz garter snake is a carnivorous species primarily feeding on amphibians, particularly oral stage tadpoles. It also consumes small fish and invertebrates, specifically snails, in its aquatic habitats.
Appearance
Santa cruz garter snake is a medium-sized snake with a slender, elongated body and smooth scales. It primarily exhibits a robust dark coloration such as black or dark olive, often with a lighter underside. Some individuals display two yellow or cream stripes running lengthwise. The head is distinct from the neck and it lacks any protruding features such as horns or wings. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Santa cruz garter snake is typically solitary, primarily active at dusk and dawn. It hunts and captures its prey, usually amphibians, using a strike-and-constrict behavior, which is unique among gartersnakes. It's non-territorial, relying on stealth and speed rather than defense of a specific area. Santa cruz garter snake is also known for its ability to remain active at lower temperatures than most snakes.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Garter snakes Species
Santa cruz garter snake 
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