Eastern Hognose Snake

Heterodon piatirhinos

Alternate Name(s):

Hognose

 

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Variable.2 ½ to 3 ½ feet, rarely larger, when adult. Heavy bodied. Dorsal and lateral colors may vary from unpatterned charcoal to strongly patterned straw color, occasionally with orange overtones. When present the dorsal pattern is of light and dark saddles bordered on each side by black spots. The belly is dusty cream in color often patterned with yellowish, orange, or poorly defined dusky blotches. The underside of the tail is often lighter than the belly. Rostral (nose) scale enlarged, pointed, slightly upturned, and keeled dorsally. There are 23 to 25 rows of keeled scales and the anal plate is divided.

 

Unique Features:

Rear-fanged. Although this snake is usually reluctant to bite, human envenomations have occurred. When this snake feels threatened it will flatten and spread the neck and head in a threat display and if the perceived threat is persistent the snake will begin writhing, open its mouth, and roll onto its back. Roll it onto its stomach and it will immediately turn upside down again. This snake is adept at finding and excavating burrowed, resting toads, its principal prey item.

 

Habitat and Diet:

Open woodlands, fields, and meadows with sandy soils. Resting toads are their principal prey item.

 

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, SC, AL, NC, TN, KY, VA, WV, RI, NY, AR, CT, IL, IN, LA, MD, MA, MN, MS, TX, CO, MI, ID, KS, MO, NE, NJ, OH, OK, WI, PA, SD