Ribbon Snakes

Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis saurita)

Overview

The Ribbon Snake is a slender, active, and visually striking species native to North America. A member of the garter snake family, this semi-aquatic snake is recognized for its vibrant stripes and graceful movements. Ribbon Snakes make excellent pets for beginner and experienced reptile keepers alike, as they are typically hardy, easy to care for, and have a manageable size.

Physical Characteristics

• Size: Ribbon Snakes typically reach 16-35 inches in length, with females generally larger than males.
• Lifespan: With proper care, they can live 10-12 years in captivity.
• Appearance: Ribbon Snakes are characterized by their long, slender bodies and distinctive stripes, which run down the length of their body. They typically have a dark background color with three bright stripes (often yellow or white) on their back and sides. They also have a distinctive white or yellow crescent in front of each eye.

Housing

• Enclosure: A 20-gallon tank is suitable for a single Ribbon Snake, though a larger enclosure is beneficial if you plan to keep more than one. Ribbon Snakes are active and will appreciate horizontal space to explore.
• Substrate: Use substrates like aspen shavings, coconut husk, or reptile-safe soil, as these hold humidity well without posing a risk of impaction. Avoid substrates like cedar or pine, which can be harmful to snakes.
• Hides and Enrichment: Provide several hiding spots, such as half logs or rock caves, along with climbing branches and a shallow water dish large enough for soaking. These additions will allow them to engage in natural behaviors and help them feel secure.

Temperature and Humidity

• Temperature: Maintain a temperature gradient with a warm side of around 85°F and a cooler side of about 75°F. Night temperatures can drop to 70-75°F.
• Heating: Use a heat lamp or an under-tank heater to achieve the desired temperature gradient. Ensure that the enclosure doesn’t become too hot, as Ribbon Snakes are sensitive to overheating.
• Humidity: Ribbon Snakes prefer moderate humidity, around 40-60%. Misting the enclosure lightly and providing a shallow water dish can help maintain this level, especially if using a screen-topped enclosure.

Lighting

• Lighting: Ribbon Snakes don’t require specialized UVB lighting, though a low-level UVB light can benefit their overall health. A regular day-night cycle (12 hours light, 12 hours dark) using natural or full-spectrum lighting is beneficial.
• Heat Source: Since they prefer a temperature gradient, placing the heat source on one side of the enclosure will allow them to regulate their body temperature by moving between warmer and cooler areas.

Feeding

• Diet: Ribbon Snakes are carnivorous and typically feed on small prey like fish, amphibians, and pinky mice.
• Feeding: Offer appropriately sized prey, such as live or thawed pinky mice or small feeder fish. Be sure to provide a varied diet, as they may enjoy small amphibians or fish on occasion.
• Feeding Frequency: Juveniles can be fed every 5-7 days, while adults can be fed every 7-10 days. Remove uneaten food to keep the enclosure clean.

Handling and Temperament

• Handling: Ribbon Snakes are generally gentle and can tolerate careful handling, although they may be skittish at first. With regular, gentle handling, they can become accustomed to human interaction. Support their entire body while handling to help them feel secure.
• Behavior: These snakes are active, alert, and curious, making them enjoyable to observe. Ribbon Snakes are fast movers and can be nervous at first, so approach handling slowly.

Health and Veterinary Care

• Common Issues: Monitor for respiratory infections, which can result from improper humidity or temperatures. Also, check for parasites and skin shedding issues. Maintaining the correct enclosure conditions and a balanced diet can prevent many health issues.
• Veterinary Care: Regular health check-ups with a reptile veterinarian are recommended to ensure your Ribbon Snake stays healthy.

Conclusion

Ribbon Snakes are an attractive and easy-to-care-for species that can make a wonderful addition to any reptile collection. Their bright colors, active nature, and manageable size make them ideal for beginner and experienced snake keepers alike. With the right care and environment, Ribbon Snakes will thrive and bring enjoyment for years to come.