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Western Hognose Snake
The western hognose snake is named after its upturned snout, that can be utilized for burrowing.
About This Species
The western hognose is a relatively small, stout snake. This is a rear-fanged snake that is venomous, but it is considered non-dangerous to humans. Because it is a relatively docile snake, it is popular in the pet trade and has been bred into dozens of different color morphs. The western hognose is also known as plains hognose or plains hog-nosed.
More Information:
Physical Characteristics
Snout upturned, spade-like; upper scales keeled; 23 or fewer rows of scales on back and sides at midbody; underside of tail mostly black; maximum total length rarely more than 35 inches (90 cm), but in Colorado relatively few exceed 20 inches (50 cm) total length.
Range
Throughout most of eastern Colorado at elevations below 6,000 feet. Fairly common. Records of this species in Moffat County in northwestern Colorado need to be confirmed.
Habitat
Sandhills, plains grassland, and sandy floodplains, often in the vicinity of, or along the margins of, streams, irrigation ditches, and ponds. Active on the ground surface or underground. Periods of inactivity are spent burrowed in the soil, in mammal burrows, or, less commonly, under rocks or debris.
Diet
Hognose snakes can use the spadelike snout to dig out buried prey. Toads, lizards, and reptile eggs are the primary foods.
Reproduction
Females produce a clutch of eggs in late June-July. Hatchlings emerge in August-September.