Western Ribbon Snake or Garter

Did you see a slender garter snake in Arkansas with a long tail?

If so, it was probably a Western Ribbon Snake! This semi-aquatic species is rarely found far from a water source. They typically occupy brush-heavy areas around streams, lakes, ponds, and other water bodies. You may also spot them basking on rocks, flat vegetation, and dry sandy areas near water.

The Western Ribbon Snake has an incredible, unique hunting technique. As they move over land, they make quick, light thrusts of their head and upper body in different directions in sequences of three. It’s similar to a strike, but with their mouth closed. This action disturbs resting frogs, which alerts the garter snake to their location. From there, the ribbon snake uses its superior speed to catch its prey.

If they feel threatened, this species will flee into the water or hide in thick brush. Their coloration provides superb camouflage in dense, bushier areas. If grabbed, they rarely bite but will thrash around, defecate, and release musk from their anal glands. This species can also shed its tail to escape, but unfortunately, the tail doesn’t regenerate like some lizard species.

Currently, the Western Ribbon Snake has a healthy population, but that doesn’t mean it doesn’t have threats. Aquatic habitat degradation and loss and pesticides and road chemicals are believed to have serious negative impacts on their numbers.

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