It is one of four subspecies of the eastern ribbon snake ("Thamnophis saurita"). Thamnophis sauritus septentrionalis, the northern ribbon snake, is a subspecies of garter snake. The ribbon snake averages in total length (including tail). The eastern ribbon snake gets its name from its very thin body. The southern ribbon snake is found in marshes, lakes, ponds, and shores of streams. The ribbon snake is active from April to October and hibernates during the winter months.