Milksnake
A beautifully colored snake that can be found throughout Colorado in almost every habitat below 8,000 feet.
About This Species
Milksnakes are very distinctive looking with their black, white and red bands, but are often confused with Coral snakes. Milksnakes coloration goes red-black-white-black-red, with the red being the largest section, black and white being similar sizes or black being thinner. Coral snakes in the US tend to have a pattern of red-yellow/white-black-yellow/white-red, with the red and black segments being about equal sizes and the yellow/white section being thin. Coral snakes in other parts of the world may display different coloration. Coral snakes do not occur in Colorado.
Milksnakes are non-venomous.
More Information:
Physical Characteristics
Milksnakes have smooth scales and can reach a maximum length of 33.5 in (85 cm) in Eastern Colorado and 28.5 in (72 cm) in Western Colorado.
Range
Throughout the state, below 8,000 feet.
Habitat
This secretive snake can be found in a variety of habitats, including prairie, sandhills, canyons, river valleys, ponderosa pines, and pinon-juniper.
Diet
An opportunistic feeder on eggs and small vertebrates, including mammals, birds, and other reptiles.
Reproduction
Mating occurs in the spring with 4-6 eggs laid in mid-June to mid-July. Incubation lasts 6-9 weeks and hatchlings start appearing in late August. Eggs average 1.2-1.6 in x 0.5-0.63 in (30-40 mm x 13-16 mm). Hatchlings are 6.3-11.4 in (16-29 cm).