Plains Hognose Snake

Heterodon nasicus plains

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Keeled scales, heavy body, and large size (14” to 3’) will differentiate the various hog-noses from the diminutive smooth scaled hook nose snakes. This western species has 9 or more small scales (azygous scales) immediately posterior to the upturned rostral scale. The modified rostral scale is an adaptation for digging for toads, the preferred food. When adult, females are usually considerably larger than the males. Back and sides are brownish in color with a sharp, “in focus,” pattern of darker blotches and spots. Males have 36 or more dorsal blotches and females have 41 or more. The belly is black with large yellowish spots. If frightened this snake will flatten its neck into a “hood” and strike at the antagonist, usually with closed mouth. They seldom bite but are perfectly capable of doing so. Oviparous. Hatchlings similar to adults. If sufficiently frightened they will begin writhing, open the mouth, turn belly up and feign death. If righted they will again roll over. HANDLE WITH CARE!

 

Unique Features:

This western species has 9 or more small scales (azygous scales) immediately posterior to the upturned rostral scale. Use your range map to separate this subspecies from the Dusty hog-nose

 

Habitat and Diet:

These snakes favor brushy prairie habitats. Primarily feeds on toads.

 

Geographic Range:

IL, MN, TX, CO, MT, ID, KS, MO, NE, IA, WY, NM, ND, OK, SD