Lined Coachwhip Snake

Masticophis lineatulus

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Long (to 6+ feet), slender, very alert, and very fast, this snake has a very limited range in the USA. Big-scaled, this coachwhip snake may be tan to brown or more rarely pinkish, at least posteriorly. Each anterior lateral scale contains a dark, horizontal, mid-scale dash. It prefers open terrain with enough cover to hide in and may often be seen along roadsides. Capable of climbing, it does so ably and promptly if seeking prey or an avenue of escape. Oviparous. Hatchlings are dark with darker saddles

 

Unique Features:

Each anterior lateral scale contains a dark, horizontal, mid-scale dash.

 

Habitat and Diet:

It prefers open terrain with enough cover to hide in and may often be seen along roadsides. Capable of climbing, it does so ably and promptly if seeking prey or an avenue of escape.They often “periscope” when hunting. Prey of this snake includes nestlings of small mammals, birds, and lizards

 

Geographic Range:

AZ, NM