Lined Snake
(Tropidoclonion lineatum)
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Lined Snake (Tropidoclonion lineatum) |
Color Photographs: Stephen P. Mackessy, U.S. Forest Service
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Thamnophis radix Species of the genus Thamnophis (garter snakes) share the dorsal and lateral lines with the Lined Snake. The Great Plains Garter Snake is shown above. However the Lined Snake has a double series of spots down the midline of the belly. These spots are absent in the garter snakes. Lined Snake (Tropidoclonion lineatum) Identification: Snake 7 to 21 inches in length. A garter snake like animal. Body color olive-gray to light brown and with prominent dorsal and lateral stripes. Both dorsal and lateral stripes clearly bordered with dark dots. Lateral stripes located on scales row 2 and 3. Belly white to dull yellow with 2 rows of black spots. Jaw with 5 or 6 upper labial scales. Scales keeled and anal plate single. Geographical Variation: None. Range (see map on left): The Lined Snakes is a species of the Great Plains extending from southeast South Dakota in the north southward to eastern central Texas in the south. Isolated populations are found as far east as Illinois and westward in Colorado and New Mexico. Habitat: This species is found in prairie, open woodlands, floodplains, vacant lots and pastures, and parks. Food: Earthworms. Behavior: The Lined Snake is nocturnal and is rarely seen during the daytime. During the day it hides under plant debris, rocks, or logs. Reproduction: The species is live-bearing. Young are born in groups of 2 to 12 during August.
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Lined Snake (Tropidoclonion lineatum)
Similar Species: Garter Snakes (Thamnophis species)
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Similar Species
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