Glossy Swampsnake
Subspecies in La. are the Delta Swampsnake (Liodytes rigida deltae) and the Gulf Swawmpsnake
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Scientific Name:
Liodytes rigida Aquatic and Terrestrial
Native
Snakes
Nonvenomous
Description
A medium snake- 15 to 30 inches long. Dark gray or dark olive to nearly black above with vague, dark longitudinal bands. Dull yellow or pale tan below and on the lowermost scale row. Underside has two rows of black spots. Entirely black individuals are occasionally found in the southeastern part of the state. Keeled (ridged) scales in 19 rows.
Range and Habitat
Found throughout the state except for dry, upland portions away from water and salt marshes. Uncommon in the northern Florida parishes. Typically inhabit swamps and bayous.
Behavior
Mostly active at night, spending some time hidden in crawfish burrows, water hyacinths, and damp leaf litter near shore. Feed on crawfish and the occasional amphibian. Give birth to 6 to 14 young.
Population Status
Populations are considered stable within the state