A non-venomous snake of Mojave Desert habitats.

Native status: Native to Mojave Desert

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 90–150 cm
Weight250–500 g
LifespanWild 10–15 years
OrderSquamata
FamilyColubridae

§ Encyclopedia

The California whipsnake, also known as the striped racer, is a colubrid snake found in habitats of the coast, desert, and foothills of California.

Source: Wikipedia — California whipsnake Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Slender black or dark brown snake with two pale dorsolateral stripes; whitish belly.

Similar species. Other whipsnakes. Coachwhip (different proportions).

Voice. Hisses.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Lizards, small mammals.

Behavior. Fast-moving diurnal snake of Mojave Desert. Active hunter; chases prey down with speed.

§ Range

California, Nevada

§ Habitat

Desert habitats

§ Threats

Habitat loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the mojave whipsnake is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Don't kill snakes.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Arizona Game and Fish
  • Davidson College Department of Biology
  • IUCN Red List 2007