Why is it called an indigo snake?

The eastern indigo snake has uniform blue-black dorsal and lateral scales, with some specimens having a reddish-orange to tan color on the throat, cheeks, and chin. This snake received its common name from the glossy iridescent ventral scales which can be seen as blackish-purple in bright light.

Why are indigo snakes important?

The eastern indigo snake is an icon of the southern longleaf pine forest and is the longest native snake on the continent. A non-venomous apex predator, it preys upon many species of animals including some venomous snakes, and it plays a critical role in keeping an ecosystem healthy and balanced.

Do indigo snakes lay eggs?

Indigo snakes begin breeding between the months of November and April and nest between the months of May and August. Females lay 4-12 eggs yearly or bi-yearly, with the eggs hatching 90 days after being laid.

Do indigo snakes bite people?

The eastern indigo snake is not venomous. It is harmless. Indigos seldom bite people, but they do bite their prey, enemies, or each other during aggressive competition between males. Snakes may be blue-black over the entire body or may have red, reddish-orange, or cream coloration on the chin, throat or cheeks.

Do indigo snakes make good pets?

The magnificent Eastern Indigo Snake, Drymarchon couperi, is the longest of all snakes native to the USA, but occupies one of the smallest ranges. These facts, along with stunning coloration and its reputation as a responsive pet, place the Indigo on the wish lists of serious snake keepers and zoos worldwide.

How long do indigo snakes live?

25 years and 11 months
Eastern indigo snakes are diurnal. Information on the life span of eastern indigo snakes in the wild is not available. The longest this species has survived in human care is 25 years and 11 months.

How long do black indigo snakes live?

What kind of snake eats rattlesnakes?

Eastern kingsnake
The Eastern kingsnake feeds on other snakes, lizards, frogs, rodents, turtle eggs, and birds and their eggs. It eats venomous snakes such as copperheads and rattlesnakes. It is even known to be cannibalistic.