What specific visual characteristics make the San Francisco garter snake prone to illegal poaching for the pet trade?
Answer
Blue/green belly, black and red lateral stripes, and orange/red head
A significant threat compounding habitat loss is illegal poaching driven by the snake's aesthetic qualities. The San Francisco garter snake is considered one of the most beautiful snakes found in North America due to its vibrant and distinctive coloration pattern. This striking appearance includes a noticeable blue/green coloration on the belly, pronounced black and red striping running laterally along the body, and a noticeable orange or red coloration on its head. Because owning native reptile species like this is illegal within California, this beauty directly translates into illegal removal of individuals from the already fragile wild stocks.
Related Questions
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