Mexican Racer

Coluber constrictor oaxaca

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

At an adult length of 3 feet this is the smallest of the racers. It is also the darkest in color. In its Texas range it is olive on the sides, grayish brown dorsally and cream to pale yellow ventrally. The hatchlings are lighter than the adults and usually strongly patterned dorsally with darker crossbars. 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 brushlands. Also many frequent suburban parks, refuges, lots and yards. This, as indicated by its name, is primarily a Mexican snake. Primarily feeds on lizards, frogs, baby turtles, small snakes, and the nestlings of ground dwelling birds or mammals

 

Geographic Range:

TX,