Page 29 - Arkansas Snake Guide

SUZANNE COLLINS TERRESTRIAL SNAKES
Western Ribbon Snake
Thamnophis proximus
Range Statewide.
Description Keeled scales. A striped snake with a
yellow or orange stripe down center of back, and two
creamy yellow stripes on the sides. These light stripes are
separated by two wide, black stripes along the back. Head
is black with a yellow or orange spot on the top. Belly is
cream-colored or very pale green. Young patterned like
adults. Adults average 20-30 inches in length.
Habitat and Habits Prefers to live near the edges of
swamps, sloughs, marshes, oxbow lakes, rivers and streams.
Active March-October and breeds April-May. Gives live
birth to an average of 12 young in August-September. The
primary foods are amphibians and small fish. Occasionally
eats earthworms. A member of the garter snake group,
often called “garden snakes.”
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