Buttermilk Racer

Coluber constrictor anthicus

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

This racer occasionally reaches a length of 5 feet but is usually smaller. It is distinctively but variably colored. Primary color is blue, olive, or black. Many scales, either individually or in groups are contrastingly colored in cream, pale blue, or tan. It shares this varied pattern with the neighboring and aptly named, tan racer. All other subspecies, when adult, have a solid colored dorsum. 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. The eyes are large and the pupil is round

 

Unique Features:

Hatchlings are lighter than the adults and usually strongly patterned with darker dorsal saddles. These fast, alert, snakes often hunt by “periscoping,” their head held well above the grasses or weeds in which they are searching for prey. As would befit snakes with such hunting techniques, the eyes are large and vision is acute. Prey includes amphibians, lizards, hatchling turtles, baby snakes and an occasional small venomous snake. 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:

Open longleaf pine woodlands and nearby grasslands where the snakes blend well with the patterns of dappled light. Prey includes amphibians, lizards, hatchling turtles, baby snakes and an occasional small venomous snake.

 

Geographic Range:

AR, LA, TX,