ORLANDO, Fla. – The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission are asking the public to report sightings of the “elusive” rainbow snake, according to a news release.

The FWC said the visually striking snake’s population has declined in recent decades.

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According to the release, the semi-aquatic snake feeds on American eels, another animal whose population is also in decline. That dependency and habitat loss throughout Florida are helping lead to the decline.

The snakes stand out with their iridescent black or violet-blue with three red stripes along their back. Their lip and chin scales are yellow, marked with violet spots, and adults typically reach 3 to 4 feet in length.

According to the FWC, rainbow snakes are usually found in or near water, including riv

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