Subphylum Vertebrata Suborder Serpentes Scientific name Regina grahamii Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Higher classification Regina | |
Similar Snake, Glossy crayfish snake, Reptile, Tropidoclonion, Carphophis vermis | ||
Graham s crayfish regina grahamii snake at tulsa zoo
Regina grahamii, commonly known as Graham's crayfish snake, is a species of nonvenomous semiaquatic colubrid snake, which is endemic to North America.
Contents
- Graham s crayfish regina grahamii snake at tulsa zoo
- Etymology
- Description
- Subspecies
- Habitat
- Diet
- Temperament and defense
- Reproduction
- In captivity
- Geographic range
- References
Etymology
The specific name, grahamii, is in honor of Lt. Col. James Duncan Graham, U.S. Topographical Engineers, who collected the type specimen.
Description
R. grahamii is a medium-sized snake, measuring an average of 18–28 inches (46–71 cm) in total length (including tail), but can grow up to almost 4 feet long in some cases. The maximum recorded total length is 47 inches (119 cm).
It is usually a brown or gray color with an occasional faint mid-dorsal stripe. Its lateral stripes are typically cream, white tan, or light yellow and located from the belly up to the fourth scale row. The belly is typically the same color as the lateral stripes and is unmarked, with the exception of a row of dark dots down the center (rare in specimens).
Subspecies
There are no subspecies of Graham's crayfish snake, Regina grahamii, which are recognized.
Habitat
Regina grahamii occurs along the margins of mud-bottom marshes, oxbow lakes, rivers and streams. It particularly likes roadside ditches abundant with crayfish. Graham's crayfish snakes typically hide under rocks, logs, and other debris at the waters edge and also spend much time in crayfish burrows.
Diet
Graham's crayfish snake feeds chiefly upon crayfish, especially recently molted crayfish. They are also reported to eat fish and amphibians.
Temperament and defense
The primary defense for this species is camouflage and nocturnal behaviors. When alarmed, especially while basking, it will make a quick escape into the water and hide. This species is relatively docile, but it may flatten out and musk if captured.
Reproduction
Adult females bear live young in broods of 10–15. Newborns are about 8 inches (about 20 cm) in total length.
In captivity
They are difficult to keep; specimens usually refuse all food and develop skin lesions easily. Only experienced snake owners should attempt to raise them.
Geographic range
These snakes are typically found in Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Iowa, Missouri, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Nebraska, and Illinois.