Melanistic Eastern Garter Snake
Common Name: Melanistic Eastern Garter Snake
Scientific Name: Thamnophis sirtalis
Names: Maleficent
Locations: Whitby
Diet
These snakes are opportunistic feeders that primarily consume amphibians (such as frogs and toads), small fish, earthworms, leeches, and various invertebrates.
Average lifespan
In the wild, Eastern Garter Snakes typically live around 10 years, with some individuals reaching up to 15 years.
Size
They usually measure between 60 to 90 centimeters (2 to 3 feet) in total length.
Weight
Adult Melanistic Eastern Garter Snakes typically weigh between 150 to 300 grams (5 to 10.5 ounces).
About
The Melanistic Eastern Garter Snake is a naturally occurring dark-colored morph of the common Eastern Garter Snake, native to Eastern North America. They are found in a variety of habitats including wetlands, grasslands, and woodlands, where their dark pigmentation helps them blend into shadowy, vegetated environments.
Size and behavior
These snakes are slender and agile. They are diurnal, often seen basking on logs or rocks near water sources. Known for their active foraging behavior, they are also observed in loose aggregations during the breeding season, although they are generally non-aggressive toward humans.
Diet and nutrition
With a varied diet of amphibians, small fish, earthworms, leeches, and other invertebrates, these snakes obtain a balanced mix of proteins and essential nutrients to support their active lifestyle and rapid metabolism.
Conservation status
The Eastern Garter Snake, including its melanistic variant, is classified as Least Concern due to its widespread distribution and adaptability, despite localized threats such as habitat degradation, pollution, and road mortality.
Fun fact
The deep, nearly all-black coloration of the melanistic variant not only makes for a striking appearance but also enhances heat absorption, which may provide a thermoregulatory advantage in cooler or shaded environments.
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