Blue Racer

Coluber constrictor foxi

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

A bluish rendition of the familiar black racer. Satiny pale blue (not shiny) above and below except partially white or all white chin and throat and lighter along the center of the belly. Range will help with identity. The hatchlings are lighter than the adults and 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:

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:

May be seen in a variety of habitats from field, meadows, and pastures to woodland edges and clearcuts. Also frequents suburban lots and yards. Primarily feeds f lizards, frogs, baby turtles, small snakes, and the nestlings of ground dwelling birds or mammals

 

Geographic Range:

IL, IN, MI, OH, WI,