Desert Patch-nosed Snake

Salvadora hexalepis hexalepis

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

This pale desert snake attains a length of about 3’. It, like the other members of this genus, has an enlarged wraparound rostral (nosetip) scale. Dorsal and lateral color pale gray to tan. Broad middorsal stripe is buff to tannish-orange and bordered by a dark stripe on both sides. A thin dark stripe runs along scale row 4 (counting up from the ventral scutes). Belly is pale pink. This pretty snake inhabits desert regions and dry, rocky, riverine flood plains. Scales smooth and in 17 rows. Oviparous. Hatchlings are similar to adults.

 

Unique Features:

The uppermore dark lateral stripe lacks the dividing white line.

 

Habitat and Diet:

Prey is primarily lizards.

 

Geographic Range:

AZ, CA,