Trans-Pecos Ratsnake

Range

South Central United States and Northern Mexico from southern New Mexico and southwestern Texas through Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango and Nuevo Leon.

Habitats

Prefers rocky, dry areas ranging from basins to valleys to woodland. During the day, will stay in crevasses in rocks or underground.

Identification

Dorsum either orange, yellow, or light olive. Head usually resembles dorsum base color. Dark brown blotches resembling an "H" shape run down back. Belly is cream colored. Possesses weakly keeled dorsal scales and divided anal scale. Adult length ranges from 76-140 cm (30-55 in). Eggs hatch 9 to 15 weeks after mating; average clutch size is between 3 and 11 eggs.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians