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Western Ribbonsnake
Scientific Name: Thamnophis proximus
Aquatic and Terrestrial
Native
Nonvenomous
A medium snake- 16 to 42 inches long. Slender, black or brown with a white, yellow, or orange stripe down the back and a pale stripe on each side covering the 3rd and 4th scale rows above the ventral plates. Underside is whitish. Scales are keeled (ridged) and in 19 rows. Unlike the eastern ribbon snake, the white parietal spot on top of the head is distinct, and there is no brown coloration on the outer edges of the ventral plates.
Range and Habitat
Active during the day and found in grassland and woodland habitats, often in the vicinity of water sources, around swamps and in marshes throughout Louisiana, except in Washington and northern St. Tammany parishes. Prefer areas with ample sunlight.
Behavior
Primarily feed on frogs but have been observed to eat salamanders, tadpoles, and small fish. Give birth to 4 to 34 young.
Population Status
Populations are considered stable within the state.