Photos by Chris Brown

Scientific name: Rhinocheilus lecontei

Common name: Western Long-Nosed Snake

Size: 18.9-29.5 in (48-75 cm)

Distinguishing sharacters: A slender species; cream ground color; black dorsal saddles with red interspaces; cream or yellow venter; black spotting on a white head; black saddles speckled with white on the sides; very pointed snout; countersunk lower jaw; anterior portion of subcaudal scales undivided in most individuals.

Juveniles: Banding more pronounced; speckling on sides faint or absent.

Dimorphism: None

Similar species: Lampropeltis getula: Have banding completely around body; all subcaudals divided; rounded snouts; lack countersunk lower jaw.

Additional notes: A gentle species that vibrates tail when annoyed. Some individuals may hemorrhage from the cloaca and excrete musk when handled.

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fieldguide/rhle.htm
Last update: 05 March 2003