Western fox snake
A species of Rat snakes Scientific name : Pantherophis ramspotti Genus : Rat snakes
Western fox snake, A species of Rat snakes
Scientific name: Pantherophis ramspotti
Genus: Rat snakes
Content
Description General Info
Description
Pantherophis ramspotti, commonly known as the western fox snake or western foxsnake, is a species of rat snake that is endemic to the upper midwestern United States, west of the Mississippi river. It is non-venomous.
General Info
Lifespan
12-20 years
Diet
Western fox snake is primarily a carnivore, often preying on small mammals. Key constituents in western fox snake's diet are rodents, particularly mice and rats, but it may also occasionally consume birds.
Appearance
Western fox snake is a medium-sized snake, characterized by a cylindrical body and smooth, shiny scales. Its primary coloration is a series of reddish-brown saddles on a lighter tan to gray background, punctuated by a white or cream-colored belly. Western fox snake is known for its intricate patterns, created by dark contours around its saddles. There are no significant differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Western fox snake is a nocturnal species, primarily solitary except during mating season. It utilizes a sit-and-wait strategy for hunting, showing remarkable patience. Exhibiting little territorial behavior, western fox snake does not establish strict boundaries in shared environments. Adapted to seek shelter in underground burrows, it stays rather stationary, avoiding exposure to predators.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Rat snakes Species
Western fox snake