Baja California Ratsnake
Bogertophis rosaliae
It is a relatively large snake averaging a total length of about 60 inches. This rat snake is slender with a head that is long and broad, and distinguishable from the lik…
How to identify
It is a relatively large snake averaging a total length of about 60 inches. This rat snake is slender with a head that is long and broad, and distinguishable from the likewise slender neck. It has large and bulbous eyes and a pink tongue. The adult snakes are uniform brown with no dark markings. Although, the dorsal scales can appear to have dark colors at the edges. Sides of the snake are lighter in color and the underside as well is light colored. Juvenile snakes are pale with light streaks across the back. However, they can appear brown with faint light bands on the back.
Range
Controversially found in California, its range extends from east of Mountain Spring in Imperial County and further south into the eastern slope of Baja California down to the entire cape region reaching Cabo San Lucas.
Habitat
Usually found in desert areas, these snakes can be found at the dry rocks of Baja California and canyons. They can be found at hillsides, scrubs, and palm groves and around water sources like springs and streams. They feed in small mammals including bats and other small invertebrates like lizards.Eggs are speculated to hatch ofrom June through October and are laid in a clutch of 2 – 10 eggs in spring.
Similar species
Desert Glossy Snake or Arizona elegans is roughly the same size and is found in similar terrains. The difference is that the color on this snake is paler and it spots blotches. It also has a shorter tail. Desert Patch-nosed Snake or Salvadora hexalepis is smaller and has a stripe that runs down the middle of the back and has dark stripes on the sides. Otherwise, this snake can be mistaken for the Baja California rat snake. Red Racer or Coluber flagellum can be seen in much more colors (mostly red and light brown) and doesn’t protuberant eyes.
Name and etymology
Rosaliae: Belonging to Santa Rosalia, Mexico.
At a glance
Range
Controversially found in California, its range extends from east of Mountain Spring in Imperial County and further south into…
Habitat
Usually found in desert areas, these snakes can be found at the dry rocks of Baja California and canyons. They can be found a…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap