Taylor’s Ground Snake
Sonora taylori
A small, slender snake reaching a maximum total length of around 38 cm (15 inches) with 13 midbody scale rows. S. taylori does not have bands or stripes, and so lack poly…
How to identify
A small, slender snake reaching a maximum total length of around 38 cm (15 inches) with 13 midbody scale rows. S. taylori does not have bands or stripes, and so lack polymorphism and coral snake mimicry. S. taylori is uniformly brown with slight variation in ground color. In addition, S. taylori may have a black cap on head.
Range
S. taylori has a restricted distribution in the southern United States and possibly northern Mexico. Confirmed populations are found only in southern Texas, inhabiting areas south and west of the Edwards Plateau and Balcones Escarpment. While historically reported from Nuevo León, Mexico, its presence there requires further study.
Habitat
A secretive terrestrial snake primarily found in arid scrubland with loose, sandy soils. They are most active at night, seeking shelter under rocks, leaf litter, or debris during the day.
Variations
S. taylori has some variation in ground color and may have a black cap on head.
Similar species
S. taylori may be confused with S. episcopa in which it is either sympatric or narrowly allopatric.
Name and etymology
Taylori: Named honoring collector William Taylor
At a glance
Range
S. taylori has a restricted distribution in the southern United States and possibly northern Mexico. Confirmed populations a…
Habitat
A secretive terrestrial snake primarily found in arid scrubland with loose, sandy soils. They are most active at night, seek…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap