I live in MO and spotted a black stripped snake?

Question

It had a red ribbon stripe down the middle of its back with two thin black strips on either side of the wider red one. I just wanted to know what kind of snake it is. I do know it loves toads as it was eating one when I moved my trash can. it was aprox two feet long. Thanks for any answers to this question and have a blessed day.

Answer 1

Sounds like a Western Ribbon Snake aka Thamnophis proximus proximus which is a type of garter snake. They usually have black stripes bordering a red or yellow stripe down its back. They like woodland areas and streams/ponds and mostly eat frogs/toads. They are native to Missouri and non-poisonous. They do have a stink gland though, so watch out!

Answer 2

Must be a Garter Snake.........See page 12 here:

http://mdc4.mdc.mo.gov/Documents/169.pdf

Answer 3

call animal control

Answer 4

Most likely a western ribbon snake or a red striped ribbon snake, but also possibly a garter snake.