The ribbon snake is a very slender, striped snake, similar in appearance to the garter snake but with a much longer tail. Tail length for the ribbon snake generally accounts for one third or more of total body length. It is boldly patterned with three yellow stripes on a reddish-brown background. A distinct dark band separates each side stripe from the belly. The ribbon snake has keeled scales and a belly that is pale yellow or pale green.
Ten Facts about Eastern Ribbon Snake
- Ribbon snakes generally mate in the spring (April-May).
- Females give birth to 10-12 young in July or August.
- The preferred habitats of ribbon snakes are wetlands and the edges of ponds and streams.
- Amphibians, especially frogs, are their preferred food, although fish and insects are also taken.
- At maturity it can be anywhere from 18 to 86 cm in length.
- Ribbon snakes may bite when captured and will typically thrash around in one's hand, spraying their captor with musk.
- After birth there is no parental care involved, the young are left to fend for themselves.
- Most young reach sexual maturity after two years, but most usually wait until the third year.
- They can live up to 6-7 years.
- Predators of hognose snakes include: hawks, owls, Red Fox, Virginia Opossum, and other snake predators.
