Slowinski's Corn Snake
Pantherophis slowinskii
A regional corn snake species found along the Texas-Louisiana border, closely resembling the more widespread corn snake but occupying a distinct range.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.9-1.4 m (3-4.5 ft)
- Range
- Western Louisiana and eastern Texas
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Overview
Slowinski's corn snake was described as a distinct species split from the broader corn snake complex, occupying a limited range in the border area of eastern Texas and western Louisiana. It shares the reddish blotched appearance typical of corn snakes but is genetically and geographically distinct.
It inhabits pine woodlands, agricultural edges, and floodplain forests, hunting small rodents primarily at night.
How to identify it
- Reddish-orange to tan ground color with dark-bordered reddish blotches
- Checkered black-and-white belly pattern, typical of corn snakes
- Spear-shaped marking on the head
- Weakly keeled scales; slender build
- Round pupils
Habitat & range
Found in pine forests, floodplains, and farmland along the Texas-Louisiana border region.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, hunting rodents by constriction. Breeds in spring, laying eggs in rotting logs or leaf litter during early summer.
Frequently asked questions
How is Slowinski's corn snake different from the common corn snake?
It is a distinct species recognized through genetic analysis, occupying a more limited range along the Texas-Louisiana border.
Is it venomous?
No, it is nonvenomous.
What does it eat?
Primarily small rodents.
Slowinski's Corn Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Slowinski's Corn Snake.
