Eastern Coachwhip

Masticophis flagellum flagellum

The Eastern Coachwhip rivals the racer for North America's fastest snake. If approached it disappears in a burst of speed into a burrow or rocky crevice. It prowls for and subdues prey as racers do. If taken by surprise and cornered, it defensively coils, shakes its tail, and may advance toward the aggressor. If grabbed, it will bite hard, hold on, and chew.

Look For : A large, lean, long-tailed speedster. Dark brown head and neck fading to light brown body (east); or tan, yellow, brown, or reddish with dark crossbars on neck (west).

Length : 42-102".

Habitat : Pine flatwoods, open wooded hillsides, grasslands, deserts, chaparral.

Range : Southeastern U.S. from eastern Texas and Oklahoma to North Carolina.