Tucson Shovel-nosed Snake

Sonora occipitalis klauberi

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

This beautiful slender burrowing desert dweller may attain a length of 15” or a bit more. The primary colors are straw-yellow with wide black bands that narrow on the sides. Secondary banding, often red on top and black on the sides, is present. Some black bands may cross the belly, otherwise the belly is white and concave. Oviparous. The hatchlings look much like the adults

 

Unique Features:

The shovel-shaped snout, dorsal color, and range map should identify this little snake

 

Habitat and Diet:

This is a species of the open desert sands. Use range to assist in identification. Primarily feeds on arthropods.

 

Geographic Range:

AZ,