Western Milksnake

Range

It can be found in the north fork of the Red River, close to Sweetwater Creek, Wheeler County, Texas.

Habitats

These snakes can be found in areas of open sagebush-grassland. They can also be found in the ponderosa pine savannah with sandy soils. Lastly, they can be found in rocky outcrops and hillsides or badland scarps. They are secretive snakes which are usually found under rocks, tins, rotten logs and other debris. Their diet is made up of small mice, lizards and other snakes. Mating for this specie takes place in the spring. These eggs are laid in the summer and they hatch in early fall.

Identification

This snake is a small to medium-sized snake. It has a highly variable color pattern. It has red or orange blotches which are outlined in black and kept distinct by lighter bands. The color of these bands differ into two color phases present in Arkansas which are grey and white/cream. Its snout is blackish and could also be patterned with white flecking. These bands they possess usually extend to their belly but sometimes they are incomplete. These then result in a white belly. Its dorsal scales are smooth, and its anal scale is not divided. This is because most of its scales are on the ventral surface of its tail. Lastly, their full length is about 390 – 850 mm.

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