Alternate Name(s):

Faded Snake

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

A relatively slender, 3 to 5 foot long, constricting snake with a pointed nose. Ground color of tan to light brown, and usually 50 or fewer black edged, darker brown, dorsal saddles as well as an uneven row of lateral spots. Occasional examples may lack blotches and spots having a black edges brown vertebral stripe instead. Sides may darken as age increases causing lateral spots to become largely obscured. Light belly. Smooth scales in 29 row

Unique Features:

Identifying subspecies involves counting and averaging the number of dorsal saddles and ventral scales, the latter varying by gender. Use the range maps

Habitat and Diet:

Prefers sandy areas, either open or with sparse vegetation. Primarily feeds on lizards and small rodents

Geographic Range:

TX,