Puget sound garter snake
A species of Garter snakes Scientific name : Thamnophis sirtalis pickeringii Genus : Garter snakes
Puget sound garter snake, A species of Garter snakes
Scientific name: Thamnophis sirtalis pickeringii
Genus: Garter snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By coachjuliemb , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Puget sound garter snake is distinguished in the realm of serpents by two fascinating behaviors. This species displays viviparity, or live birth, an adaptation unusual among reptiles that enhances survival in cold environments by allowing for internal incubation of offspring. Additionally, puget sound garter snake adopts a distinct foraging strategy in which it employs chemical cues and tactile stimuli to actively pursue and capture its amphibian prey, unlike many snake species that primarily use ambush tactics.
General Info
Lifespan
6-10 years
Diet
Puget sound garter snake, or Pickering's garter snake, are piscivorous by nature, predominantly feeding on fish. Moreover, they also eat small land-dwelling and aquatic species including amphibians, earthworms, leeches, slugs, snails and occasionally insects.
Appearance
Puget sound garter snake is a sleek, medium-sized snake with smooth scales. It primarily displays a dark green to brown coloration, with three light yellow stripes running longitudinally down its body, the central one being most prominent. No significant differences exist in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies. Its rounded head, thin neck, and long tail add to its distinct profile.
Behavior
Puget sound garter snake is known for its semi-aquatic lifestyle, often found near bodies of water, hunting amphibians and fish. This species shows diurnal tendencies during spring and autumn, transitioning to a more crepuscular schedule in summer to avoid extreme heat. Solitary in nature, puget sound garter snake has a non-aggressive demeanor unless threatened; its survival tactic is quick evasion rather than an active defense.
Photo By coachjuliemb , 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
Puget sound garter snake