Western ribbon snake
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis proximus proximus Genus : Garter snakes
Western ribbon snake, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis proximus proximus
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
Known for its commitment to sustained monogamy, western ribbon snake forms enduring pair-bonds, a rarity among reptiles. Its diet predominantly consists of amphibians, utilizing a passive hunting strategy, lying in wait for prey near bodies of water. This snake considerably contributes to the control of amphibian populations in its environment.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Western ribbon snake is an amphibious carnivore known for its preference for a primary diet of fish and amphibians. It skillfully hunts for its food, often using its sharp fangs to capture prey like frogs, toads, tadpoles, and small fish.
Appearance
Western ribbon snake is a long, slender snake measuring up to 107 cm in length. Its skin, covered in smooth scales, features a base color of olive to brown-black. Strikingly, it exhibits yellow to orange stripes running longitudinally along its body. The ventral side is lighter, usually cream or yellow. Distinctively, it possesses a slender neck and a tapered tail. No significant differences are observed due to age, gender, or subspecies in this particular animal.
Behavior
Western ribbon snake is a semi-aquatic species notable for its active daytime habits, often seen swimming or basking near water bodies. It employs a hunting strategy that combines visual and chemical cues, feeding on an array of small aquatic or terrestrial animals. Shying away from significant social interaction, individual behaviour is marked by territoriality, leading to potential skirmishes during mating seasons.
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Garter snakes Species
Western ribbon snake 
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