WESTERN HOGNOSE SNAKE

Heterodon nasicus

IDENTIFICATION: The sharply upturned snout identifies the Western Hognose

Snake. The underside of its tail is typically marked by masses of black

pigment. However, since there is great variation in their coloring, it is

best to identify these snakes by their snout and their body shape, which is

short and stocky. They usually measure between 16 and 25 inches.

RANGE AND HABITAT: The Western Hognose Snake is partial to relatively dry

prairie areas, especially sandy ones. It is found from Illinois to Alberta,

and south to southeastern Arizona and northern Mexico.

HABITS: This snake has a number of ways to ward off predators. When

frightened, they often spread the ribs located just behind their head like a

cobra. Additionally, Hognose snakes, like a number of other non-venomous

snakes, coil their bodies, and shake their tails against leaves in order to

make it sound like a rattle on a rattlesnake. Furthermore, Hognose Snakes

(Western Hognose Snakes in particular) are known for feigning death when

threatened, by rolling onto their backs, with their tongues hanging out.

DIET: Amphibians and lizards are the chief foods, but small mammals and

ground-nesting birds are also eaten.

Anne Grace

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