Western Milksnake
Lampropeltis gentilis
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 lighte…
How to identify
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.
Range
It can be found in the north fork of the Red River, close to Sweetwater Creek, Wheeler County, Texas.
Habitat
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.
Similar species
Cemophora coccinea or the Scarletsnake. It can be differentiated from the Western Milksnake by the shape of its head. The Milksnake also has a more rounded snout than that of the Scarletsnake. Micrurus tener or the Texas coral snake. This snake possesses an all-black, round head. It is difficult to find a Milksnake with a solid coral blackhead coloration like the coral snake. The bands of the coral snake encircle its entire body. Lampropeltis annulate or The Mexican milk snake. This is a short snake with distinct red, black and cream or yellow colored banding. It looks a lot like the coral snake.
Name and etymology
Gentilis: Latin for clansman.
At a glance
Range
It can be found in the north fork of the Red River, close to Sweetwater Creek, Wheeler County, Texas.
Habitat
These snakes can be found in areas of open sagebush-grassland. They can also be found in the ponderosa pine savannah with san…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap