Description

Ribbonsnakes are relatively common in their range, found in woodlands, grasslands, often near water. The eastern species can be found throughout most of Mississippi, outside of the western ribbon snake’s range in the northwest. Eastern ribbons are usually more brown in their base color, with similar yellow or oranges lines on the back. The parietal spots on the top of the head less visible than in the western species. Seen often basking on roads near wetlands or swamps.

Identifying Traits

• Lateral line on 3rd and 4th scale from ventral (separates from common garter snake)
• Small or faded parietal spots (separates from western species)

Subspecies Present:

Eastern Ribbonsnake (Thamnophis saurita saurita)

Habitat

Woodlands, upland piney ecosystems, grasslands, ditches, lakes, ponds, often found near bodies of water (semiaquatic)

Behavior

Semiqauatic, not often found away from sources of water.

Diet

Various invertebrates, fish, tadpoles