Queen Snake
(Regina septemvittata)
The Queen Snake is usually 1 - 3 feet in length. They can range in color from tan to olive-brown to chocolate-brown to almost black and has a yellow stripe running down each side of the body close to the belly. The belly is usually yellow with 4 brown stripes. Two of the stripes are usually near the mid-line and the other two are near the sides. Three stripes can also sometimes be seen on the back as well.
Mating is usually seen in April to May. This species is a live-bearer so no eggs are laid, but 5 - 23 young will be born in July to early September.
The Queen Snake can be seen active during the day and the night and are excellent swimmers. When disturbed they will often seek water for refuge. They also like to feed on crayfish, especially those who have most recently molted.