Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris Genus : Garter snakes
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By mikegrimaldo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris exhibits a fascinating nocturnal lifestyle, primarily active under the cover of darkness in order to lessen its risk of predation, and to leverage its ability to perceive prey in low light. As carnivorous animals, they feed on a variety of small vertebrates and invertebrates, exhibiting remarkable adaptability to diverse dietary preferences. Moreover, thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris's females are ovoviviparous, making them unique among reptiles for giving live birth rather than laying eggs.
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris primarily consumes small amphibians, particularly frogs and larvae. It also includes fish and occasional small mammals in its diet. They possess keen hunting skills that aid in obtaining these foods.
Appearance
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris is a medium-sized, slender snake with slick, scale-covered skin. It sports a dominant color of black or brown, with a series of orange or red lateral stripes that run along its body. This distinctively features a striking white collar behind its head. Both genders and all ages generally share this conspicuous appearance, with no significant visual variations.
Behavior
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris is typically solitary, exhibiting a penchant for basking on rocks during daylight. It displays defensive behavior by flattening its body and displaying vibrant underbelly patterns, an efficient deterrent to predators. Hunting primarily at night, thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris uses chemical cues to track and capture small amphibians and fish.
Photo By mikegrimaldo , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Garter snakes Species
Thamnophis cyrtopsis collaris