Western Groundsnake
Sonora semiannulata
A small, highly variable desert snake that may be striped, banded, or plain depending on the population.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 25-45 cm (10-18 in)
- Range
- Western and central United States and northern Mexico
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Overview
The Western Groundsnake is a small, secretive colubrid notable for its remarkable variation in color and pattern across its wide range in the western United States and northern Mexico. Some populations are boldly banded in red, black, and cream, while others are plain or striped.
Despite this variability, all populations share a similar small size and burrowing, secretive lifestyle in sandy and rocky soils.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with highly variable pattern: some populations banded in red-orange, black, and cream; others striped or nearly patternless
- Smooth scales; small head barely wider than neck
- Round pupils; pale, unmarked belly in most forms
- Banded forms can resemble coral snakes or shovel-nosed snakes, but lack the enlarged rostral scale of the latter
- Best identified by small size, smooth scales, and range
Habitat & range
Found in desert scrub, rocky foothills, grasslands, and sandy washes, favoring loose soils suitable for burrowing.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and largely nocturnal or crepuscular, often found under rocks, logs, or surface debris. Feeds on insects, spiders, scorpions, and centipedes. Lays eggs in early summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Western Groundsnake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous and harmless to humans.
Why does its color vary so much?
Different populations across its wide range have evolved distinct color forms, including banded, striped, and plain variants.
Could it be mistaken for a coral snake?
Banded color forms can superficially resemble coral snakes, but the Western Groundsnake is much smaller and non-venomous.
What does it eat?
It preys on small invertebrates such as insects, spiders, scorpions, and centipedes.
Western Groundsnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Western Groundsnake.
