Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis Genus : Garter snakes
Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By sullivanribbit , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis is an intraspecies reptile adept at aquatic and terrestrial mobility, exhibiting splendid variants in its mode of hunting. It primarily preys on amphibians and fish, using a specialized immobilizing venom to subdue its catch. Notable behavioral adaptation involves emitting a foul-smelling musk to ward off potential predators, showcasing its importance to the predator-prey interactions within its ecological niche.
General Info
Lifespan
8-12 years
Diet
Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis, primarily an insectivore, feeds mostly on terrestrial invertebrates. This garter snake shows a preference for soft-bodied prey, often including earthworms, slugs, and various larvae in its diet.
Appearance
Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis is a medium-sized serpent possessing a slender yet cylindrical body. Its glossy skin is predominantly black with three longitudinal golden-yellow stripes running down its entire length. Boasting a slender tail that tapers to a point, its defining feature is the distinctive red-orange coloration underneath its eyes and jaw, which contrasts starkly against its general dark coloration.
Behavior
Thamnophis cyrtopsis cyrtopsis exhibits diurnal activity, preferring well-lit, coastal habitats. Their diet primarily consists of amphibians and other small vertebrates. Known for their solitary nature, aggressive interactions are common during mating season due to territorial disputes. Frequently, to deter rivals or predators, they display their red colormorph, an example of aposematic coloration. All these behaviors enhance their survival in diverse habitats.
Photo By sullivanribbit , 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 cyrtopsis