Black-masked Racer

Coluber constrictor latrunculus

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Gray, blue-gray, or brownish dorsally, paler ventrally. At the western extreme of its range some examples may show vague dark flecking on some dorsal and lateral scales. A horizontal black marking encompasses each eye and then extends rearward to the back of the head as a broad dark mask. The hatchlings are lighter than the adults and usually strongly patterned with darker dorsal saddles. Scales are smooth, in 17 rows to and beyond midbody, and 15 rows posteriorly. Anal scale is divided. Pupil round

 

Unique Features:

The namesake mask is an identifying feature. These fast snakes often hunt by “periscoping,” their head held well above the grasses or weeds in which they are searching for their prey of lizards, frogs, baby turtles, small snakes, and the nestlings of ground dwelling birds or mammals. As would befit snakes with such hunting techniques, the eyes are large and vision is acute. When defensive, racers often shake or vibrate their tail. When amidst dead leaves and grasses this produces a sound somewhat similar to that of a disturbed rattlesnake.

 

Habitat and Diet:

This is a snake of the flood prone cypress and wooded bottomlands. Primarily feeds on lizards, frogs, baby turtles, small snakes, and the nestlings of ground dwelling birds or mammals.

 

Geographic Range:

AR, LA, MS,