A medium snake with distinctive long pointed snout.

Native status: Native to southwestern US into Mexico

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 55–120 cm
Weight100–400 g
LifespanWild 10–15 years
OrderSquamata
FamilyColubridae

§ Encyclopedia

The long-nosed snake is a species of nonvenomous snake in the family Colubridae. The species is endemic to North America. It has two recognized subspecies. The other species in the genus were previously considered subspecies.

Source: Wikipedia — Long-nosed snake Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Slender snake with cream-tan background; bold dark dorsal blotches; pointed snout.

Similar species. Other southwestern colubrids (different markings).

Voice. Hisses.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Lizards (primary), small mammals, occasionally other snakes.

Behavior. Non-venomous southwestern snake. Common in arid habitats.

§ Range

Southwestern US

§ Habitat

Sandy desert habitats

§ Threats

Habitat loss.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the long-nosed snake 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