Snake Identity Please!

[Borrego Linda]

This guy (or gal) came through our campsite at Oak Grove last week. The Oak Grove in San Diego County. It was fast and shook it's tail like a rattler to warn my husband off when it got tired of getting picture taken! We know it's not a rattler though! Think it's a friendly snake from the shape of it's head.

[TradClimber]

Coluber flagellum piceus - Red Racer

TradClimber
The wilderness has educated me beyond my intelligence.

[reptilist]

Otherwise known as a Western Coachwhip (red phase). The latin name has for years been Masticophis flagellum pisceus, but I think that Trad is correct in calling it Coluber as I believe the taxonomists have changed it. These snakes are not venomous but they are very pissy, I think that's where the word "pisceus" comes from.


Nice pics!

[coazon de oro]

Since we failed to protect the border, the new common name now is Alicantre.

Homar P. Olivarez

[Borrego Linda]

Thanks everyone! Yes, (s)he was a little pissy! Pretty though!