Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

This foot long snake is a smooth-scaled hog-nose look alike. It is gray to brown in color with numerous prominent dark crossbars along the dorsum. The head is crossed by 2 dark bars, one extending from eye to eye and the 2nd crossing the back of the head. The nose is turned upward and assists both for burrowing and excavating the arthropod prey. The belly is white. This snake often emerges during or following rain. When frightened this snake may make a “popping” sound by reverting the cloacal lining in and out. Oviparous. Prey: arthropods. Oviparous.

Unique Features:

Strongly patterned head and upturned snout

Habitat and Diet:

Desert with or without chaparral and creosote brush. Primarily feeds on arthropods

Geographic Range:

TX, AZ, NM