What combination of colors defines the unmistakable appearance of *Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia*?
Answer
A red-orange stripe bordered by black and light blue or yellow lines on a dark green or black body
The striking and easily identifiable appearance of the San Francisco garter snake is characterized by a specific pattern of coloration running down its body. This pattern consists of a central red-orange stripe that is distinctly bordered on either side by lines of light blue or yellow. These colored stripes run along a body that is generally dark green or black. This unique combination of vibrant colors contrasted against a dark base is what makes the snake unmistakable when spotted, setting it apart from other regional reptiles, although its elusiveness often prevents casual observation.
Related Questions
What is the federal listing status under the Endangered Species Act for the San Francisco garter snake?What combination of colors defines the unmistakable appearance of *Thamnophis sirtalis tetrataenia*?Which three California counties contain the remarkably restricted historical and current range of the snake?What aquatic amphibian appears to be the primary food source for the San Francisco garter snake?What key subterranean structural element is required in the terrestrial habitat component for refuge and brumation?What is the recommended minimum safe distance observers must maintain when spotting a federally threatened garter snake?During which seasonal period are San Francisco garter snakes most visible for active basking and hunting?What core issue, combined with habitat loss, drives the endangered classification of this subspecies?What landscape characteristic is cited as a strong indicator of a quality habitat patch requiring a necessary balance?Which area is specifically noted as generally being outside the concentrated search zone for this federally threatened subspecies?