Plains garter snake
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis radix Genus : Garter snakes
Plains garter snake, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis radix
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
The Plains garter snake (Thamnophis radix) is a species of garter snake native to most of the central United States as far north as Canada and as far south as Texas. It has a distinctive orange or yellow stripe from its head to tail, and the rest of its body is mainly a gray-green color. The snake is commonly found living near water sources such as streams and ponds, but can also be found in urban...
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
Plains garter snake is predominantly a carnivore, with earthworms being its primary food source. Other dietary preferences include insects, small fish, and occasionally small mammals, ensuring it diversifies its intake for optimal nutrition.
Appearance
Plains garter snake is a medium-sized snake bearing slender, elongated structure. Its scaly skin presents a pattern of alternaing red, brown, or grey longitudinal stripes offset by a paler background color. The belly is often yellowish or white. The species lacks special appendages like horns or wings. Substantial variations in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies are not documented.
Behavior
Plains garter snake is primarily diurnal, known for its slithering hunting technique. Obligately carnivorous, it feeds on small amphibians and invertebrates. Displaying a remarkable adaptation to cold climates, it hibernates in winter with other species. Interestingly, plains garter snake exhibits aggressive defensive behaviors, but has a solitary orientation, with males demonstrating significant territoriality during the breeding season.
Population
Stable
Photo By Greg Schechter , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Natricinae Genus
Garter snakes Species
Plains garter snake