North American Racer
Coluber constrictor
Average adult length varies between 20 to 60 inches, depending on subspecies/locaiton, but can reach up to 73 inches long. Most individuals are solid color occuring in bl…
How to identify
Average adult length varies between 20 to 60 inches, depending on subspecies/locaiton, but can reach up to 73 inches long. Most individuals are solid color occuring in black, brown, tan, blue, or green. Light colored ventral side occurs in white, tan, or yellow. Patterns vary depending on subspecies.
Range
Throughout United States, absent from Rocky Mountains and deserts of the southwest states. Small range into northwestern Canada. South through Mexico, Guatemala, & Belize.
Habitat
Terrestrial. Prefer grasslands, prairies, fields, and light forests. Common in residential areas where humans reside. Usually found near water. Can climb trees and shrubs when hunting.
Variations
Juveniles: Light background color with mid-dorsal row of dark spots, tail solid colored. Coloration & pattern varies by subspecies and individual.
Name and etymology
Constrictor: Latin for one that constricts, oddly this species does not constrict its prey.
More illustrations
Buttermilk Racer
Brownchin Racer
Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer
Blue Racer
At a glance
Size
191 cm
Range
Throughout United States, absent from Rocky Mountains and deserts of the southwest states. Small range into northwestern Cana…
Habitat
Terrestrial. Prefer grasslands, prairies, fields, and light forests. Common in residential areas where humans reside. Usually…
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap