Coastal garter snake
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis elegans terrestris Genus : Garter snakes
Coastal garter snake, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis elegans terrestris
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By lorri-gong , used under CC-BY-NC-ND 4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Coastal garter snake is an intriguing species primarily exhibiting diurnal behavior, thriving best during daylight hours. This reptile is characterized by its penchant for preying on amphibians, exhibiting an adaptational preference for slippery prey. Key to its survival, it is also known for its 'freeze or flee' response when confronted by predators, a classic example of an anti-predator adaptation within its ecological niche.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Coastal garter snake mainly feeds on amphibians, predominantly salamanders. In areas lacking these aquatic prey, it adapts to terrestrially-oriented meals, consuming slugs, earthworms, and small mammals.
Appearance
A slender-bodied aquatic snake, coastal garter snake exhibits a set of uniform, bold stripes extending the length of its body. The dominant hue is a coastal, muted coloration, often augmented by more vibrant orange-red stripes. Although scales feature prominently, they house a silky, almost matte finish. Distinctive in the male is its larger size and thicker body. This subspecies sports a shorter tail than its relatives.
Behavior
Coastal garter snake displays semiaquatic-based behaviors, with foraging and hunting activities primarily done in or near water bodies. Known for their diurnal activity, they hunt a variety of prey, often luring them in with their caudal luring technique. This species tends to be solitary, except during mating season. Their survival behaviors comprise a powerful constriction to subdue prey, and a swift retreat to water when threatened.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Garter snakes Species
Coastal garter snake 
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