Night Snake

Hypsiglena torquata

The Night Snake is at home in a wide variety of climates, from the temperate northwestern United States to tropical Mexico. Like other snakes that are active after dark, it has vertical pupils. It is seen most frequently crossing warm back roads at night. It feeds on lizards, snakes, and frogs. While harmless to humans, the Night Snake has enlarged, grooved teeth that hold prey while a mild venom subdues it.

Look For : A tan to gray snake with dark spots on back and a pair of large dark blotches on the neck. Vertical pupils.

Length : 12-26".

Habitat : Deserts, grasslands, chaparral, brushlands, mountain meadows.

Range : Most of California, eastern Oregon, and Washington south through Nevada and Utah to central Texas.