![]() ![]() Different species grow to different sizes and have very different markings. Kingsnakes are considered to be snake-eaters, which is how they got their name. ![]() In this article though, we’ll be looking at the types of kingsnakes in Oklahoma.Īll kingsnakes are non-venomous constrictors that feed primarily on other snakes, even venomous ones. Oklahoma, like most other states in America, is home to many of these types of snakes. The majority of our snakes are not aggressive and will most likely try to escape your presence, or remain motionless and unnoticed.There are a total of around 50 different species of snakes found in the United States. Similar attention at the water’s edge, or around tree limbs or shrubs overhanging the water, may help you keep a respectable distance from a snake. Paying attention to where your hands and feet go while hiking or scrambling over rocks or boulders may help you avoid stepping on or unintentionally handling a snake. One of the best ways is to remain aware of your surroundings. Regardless of their range in the state, there are ways to avoid undesirable snake encounters. “Racers found at the Slough and the eastern quarter of the state are black in color." Eastern yellow-bellied racers are the subspecies found in the rest of the state and are olive-brown or yellowish. The distinguishing feature of this subspecies is the background color. ![]() “We have a subspecies of the eastern racer known as the southern black racer,” Arbour said. Other snakes common at Red Slough are represented statewide at a species level. They can be found near almost any permanent water,” Arbour said. “Perhaps two of our most common snakes, the plain-bellied and diamond-backed watersnakes are also extremely common in other areas of the state. Red Slough’s diversity attracts reptile enthusiasts and herpetology students from across Oklahoma and neighboring states, but they also share many species with the rest of the state. “We have two species of snakes – the gulf crayfish snake and western mudsnake – that are not only rare, but also really secretive.” Both snakes are highly aquatic the crayfish snake feeds primarily on molting crayfish, the mudsnake primarily on amphiumas and sirens (salamanders restricted to the southeastern corner of the state).ĭoes Your Area Share Snakes with Red Slough? While it’s common to see nonvenomous watersnakes near Red Slough’s wetlands, some of the WMA’s snakes aren’t as visible, even during the typical morning or evening basking shift. Permits are not required to photograph the animals.) “It’s hard to get close for a photograph sometimes.” (Capturing reptiles at Red Slough WMA requires a Scientific Collector’s permit from the Wildlife Department and a Special Use permit from the Ouachita National Forest. “Most snakes are pretty wary, and will often slip into the water or find a burrow if you approach,” Arbour said. It’s not uncommon to find them basking on warm rocks, sun-soaked logs and even the warm pavement or gravel road.” “Most species have cooled off during the night, and need to warm to their active temperature. “Early summer mornings are great times to look for snakes,” said Arbour. Because snakes are ectotherms – relying on the environment to control their internal body temperature – many species are most active during the warm spring and summer months. ![]()
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