Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus)

The Striped Whipsnake (Coluber taeniatus) is a slender snake measuring between 30- 72 inches (76 cm – 1 m) in length. Resembling its close relative, the Striped Racer, this snake exhibits a coloration spectrum ranging from black, dark brown to gray, often displaying an olive or bluish tint on its dorsal side. Notably, it features a distinct dark longitudinal stripe running along each of the first four pale dorsal scale rows, with variations in stripe coloration observed across its range. From the pale hues in the northwestern part of its habitat to the darker shades in the southern and southeastern regions, and a paler appearance in the Chihuahuan Desert of Mexico. The ventral surface exhibits a gradation from cream or white under the chin and neck to yellow at mid-body, finally ending in dark pink under the tail. Featuring large eyes with round pupils and smooth scales, this snake's distinct coloration and markings, including the dark pink under its tail, serve to differentiate it from the visually similar Sonoran Whipsnake.

Inhabiting a diverse array of environments including shrublands, grasslands, sagebrush flats, canyons, and various woodland types, the Striped Whipsnake demonstrates a penchant for rocky stream courses and rodent burrows. Its agile and diurnal nature sees it actively foraging for a diet comprising lizards, snakes (including rattlesnakes), small mammals, young birds, frogs, and insects. Come breeding season, which typically occurs in spring, this snake lays clutches of 3 to 12 eggs during the months of June and July, with hatchlings emerging in August.

 This species, with its remarkable speed and agility, is often observed hunting during the mid-morning hours, with its slender form darting through its habitat in search of prey. It's not uncommon to find this adept climber seeking refuge in the branches of trees when threatened, showcasing its ability to adapt to various terrain types including canyons, slopes, plains, and riparian corridors.

References:

Stebbins, R. C., & McGinnis, S. M. (2018). Peterson Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians (4th ed.). Houghton Mifflin Harcourt.

 Brennan, T. C. (n.d.-d). Striped Whipsnake. The reptiles and amphibians of Arizona. https://reptilesofaz.org/snakes-subpages/h-c-taeniatus/