Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

With the new nomenclature grouping the two, this 3 to 3 ½’ snake has become a very variable species. Almost stripeless in the San Diego region, further north and east it is striped in colors as varied as pinkish, brown, bluish-gray or terracotta and that are equally varied in their qualities of definition and clarity. The ground color varies from brown to grayish to buff. Smooth scales. Ovoviviparous. Neonates similar to adults.

Unique Features:

Tiny scales, heavy body, stubby tail, and in most examples, stripes, will help identify this snake.

Habitat and Diet:

Desert scrub, rocky desert, brushland, environs of springs, cattle tanks, and other water sources. Prey of these powerful constrictors includes small mammals and birds.

Geographic Range:

AZ, CA,