frequently asked q u e s t i o n s critter f i e l d   g u i d e what is it? g u e s s   g a m e ask jim y o u r   q u e s t i o n s critter care i n s t r u c t i o n s links f o r   m o r e   i n f o Critterguy / Critter Field Guide / Snakes / northern ribbon snake Critter Field Guide: Snakes of Michigan northern ribbon snake Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis northern ribbon snake Description A very slender black or brown snake with three bright yellow or white stripes down the back. The head is black, though the scales above and below the mouth are white. The belly is white or light yellow. Adult Length: 18 to 38 inches. Habitat and Habits Eastern Ribbon Snakes inhabit marshes and the edges of lakes, ponds, and streams. They are very alert and active, and swim well (but rarely dive). Their diet includes frogs, tadpoles, salamanders, and small fish. Reproduction From 3 to 26 young are born alive in late summer. They are 7 to 9 inches long and colored like the adults. Range and Status Ribbon Snakes occur throughout the Lower Peninsula. Acknowledgement James Harding MSU Museum Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824 (517) 353-7978 hardingj@msu.edu © Copyright 2004. All Rights Reserved.