Western Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus) (Say, 1823)

 

Synonyms: Thamnophis proxima, Thamnophis saurita proxima, Coluber proximus, Eutaenia proxima

 

 

Thamnophis proximus is a species of garter snake found in the central United States (from Wisconsin to New Mexico and Texas), eastern Mexico, and Central America south to Costa Rica. Six subspecies; Arid Lands Ribbon Snake (T. p. diabolicus) is shown on this page. This species inhabits wooded areas and grasslands, usually near water, e.g., lakes, marshes, ponds, and streams; sea level to 2,500 m. A slender snake with a very long tail; up to 127 cm in total length. Blackish, or brown-olive dorsally with three stripes (the orange central stripe, and yellowish lateral stripes); yellowish-white ventrally. The upper labials are whitish and unmarked; a distinct light bar the front of the eye. Ovoviviparous; females bear 3-21 in mid-summer. T. proximus mainly feeds on amphibians, but also fishes, snails, crustaceans, and small mammals.

 

		25280 Arid Lands Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus diabolicus), juvenile Bentsen State Park Hidalgo County, Texas, USA Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
		25281 Arid Lands Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus diabolicus), juvenile Bentsen State Park Hidalgo County, Texas, USA Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
		25282 Arid Lands Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus diabolicus), juvenile Bentsen State Park Hidalgo County, Texas, USA Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
		25279 Arid Lands Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus diabolicus), juvenile Bentsen State Park Hidalgo County, Texas, USA Copyright © Michael Patrikeev All Rights Reserved
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