| Description: The
Eastern Hognose Snake ranges in size from 1.5-3 feet. Coloration is
variable ranging from gray to brown to black with mottling of red, gray
and/or orange. The best diagnostic feature of the hognose snake is
the upturned, keeled snout. Scales are keeled and anal plate is
divided.
Habitat: Found in a variety
of habitats with sandy areas being preferable.
Behavior: This snake has a
couple of interesting behaviors. When disturbed, the Hognose Snake
will often flatten its head and neck in cobra-like fashion and hiss at the
intruder. If this fails, occasionally the snake will play dead by
rolling over onto its back with mouth gaping and tongue protruding,
presumably in the hope that the intruder will soon leave. Attempts
to turn the snake right-side up cause it to immediately roll onto its back
again. Hognose Snakes soon tire of this game, however, and will not
usually do repeat performances. |
