The First Rainbow Snake Since
1969 Spotted In Florida’s Ocala National Forest
“When
it comes to diversity in wildlife, it’s hard to beat what Florida brings to the
table. This includes a rather unusual snake, the rainbow snake, that has been
spotted in the Ocala National Forest. This is the first sighting of a rainbow
snake since 1969.
‘Rainbow
snakes are highly-aquatic, spending most of their life hidden amongst aquatic
vegetation; seldom seen, even by herpetologists, due to their cryptic habits,’
according to the Florida Fish & Wildlife Research Institute.
Some
biologists feel that the snake, also known as the eel moccasin, found its way
into the Ocala National Forest after the water levels changed in the Rodman
reservoir.
The
Reptiles Magazine article reported: ‘The rainbow snake, also known as the eel
moccasin, is a non-venomous colubrid snake that is primarily aquatic & feeds
on eels, frogs, tadpoles & other amphibians.
In
addition to being a strong swimmer, the reptile is a proficient burrower as
well. It grows to about 36-48 inches (91-122 cm) in length, with larger
specimens reaching up to 66 inches (168 cm). They are said to inhabit tidal mud
flats, creeks, lakes & marshes.”
Timothy
Roberts
https://blog.therainforestsite.greatergood.com
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