In this snake's case, the result was becoming stronger than other snakes in its area, and even becoming resistant to their venom. Extinction occurs when animal species are unable to adapt and overcome the competition described above. In the wild, competition from other species can lead to somewhat different outcomes over long periods of time. These particular snakes are very good at killing other snakes and other smaller animals. It's fun imagining animals evolving legs and then losing them again! Since these snakes have adapted to live as low as possible to avoid enemies and get closer to their prey. Snakes either lost their legs or degenerated as the snake relied less and less on them. Like other snakes, Texas indigo snakes were formerly reptiles, but they had legs. ![]() margaritae inhabits the West Margarita Islands and Venezuela. caudomaculatus, found in Venezuela and Colombia, has more brown spots than its northern relative Two species of indigo snakes inhabit Central and South America: Its head shape is shorter and shallower than that of the eastern indigo snake. kolpobasileus, is endemic to the Gulf Coast of Florida and Mississippi. corais couperi eastern indigo snake lives in the southeastern United States. It is mostly black with some brown spots. melanurus erebennus lives primarily in southern Texas and northern Mexico. Three of these occurred in North America: However, genetic studies suggest five distinct species given more time and research, we might discover many more. Until recently, all indigo snakes were classified as a subspecies of Drymarchon corais, and even some government websites still reflect this. Their scientific name Drymarchon roughly translates to "king of the forest," and melanurus is Greek for black.Īll indigo snake species have smooth, very shiny scales that reflect an iridescent bluish-purple in the light, hence their common name. ![]() The Texas indigo snake ( Drymarchon melanurus erebennus) belongs to the same family of snakes as king snakes and boas. scientific name The scientific name of the Texas indigo snake is Drymarchon melanurus erebennus. They spend their rest time under abandoned burrows, logs, and other items large enough to hide them, but Texas indigo snakes are active hunters, hunting for most of the day. These snakes inhabit areas south of San Antonio, Texas, northern Mexico, and as far as Veracruz where there are permanent water sources and grasslands, scrubland, or forests. Where to find them Texas indigo snakes are native to Texas, but their range extends into northern Mexico. They use brute force to subdue their prey, yet are surprisingly docile.They'll eat anything they can overwhelm birds, lizards, turtles, snakes, and rodents are all on their colorful menu.This is great if you have poisonous snakes near you.They appear to be at least partially resistant to rattlesnake venom.© Amazing Facts About Texas Indigo Snakes Their range extends from central Texas to northern Mexico, and until recently, the Texas indigo snake was on the Texas State Protection List. They are one of the longest species in North America, typically reaching 6-8 feet in length snakes approaching 10 feet have been reported but have not been confirmed. They lay 3-12 eggs and hatch hatchlings in summer that are 14-18 inches long but can reach 24 inches. These snakes mate in winter and then lay their eggs in abandoned burrows in spring. They are nocturnal by nature, spending the night in burrows abandoned by other animals. Texas indigo snakes are known to actively hunt and eat rattlesnakes. ![]() They are very popular in South/Central Texas where they mostly live. "If it's a Texas indigo snake, let it go," is a popular adage among Texas ranchers and farmers. These purchases help us further AZ Animals' mission of educating the world's species. ![]() This post may contain affiliate links to our partners such as Chewy, Amazon, etc.
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