868 13. COLUBRID.E 



distinct by the presence on the dorsal scales of central dark 

 markings similar to those of the lateral scales. 



Length to anus.... 132 270 322 340 371 



Length of tail. 35 59 73 75 86 



Distribution. Originally described from Texas, this 

 little snake has since been found to range west to southeastern 

 California and Lower California. 



In California, it has been taken near Heber, Imperial 

 County, and four miles north of Blythe Junction, San Ber- 

 nardino County. 



In Arizona, it has been secured at Yuma, Yuma Coun- 

 ty. The National Museum is said to have specimens from 

 Kingman, Prescott, Phoenix, and the Santa Catalina Moun- 

 tains. 



In Lower California, it has been found at Santa Rosalia. 



Habits. Practically unknown. Camp reports a speci- 

 men found on June 8 at six P. M., coiled beside a stone in 

 front of a hole, into which it abruptly disappeared when 

 approached. The red colors were conspicuous in the living 

 snake from the moment it was discovered. This specimen 

 was caught on a rocky hillside at an elevation of 1,500 feet, 

 four miles north of Blythe Junction. 



Genus 42. Chilomeniscus 



Chilomeniscui COPE, Proc. Acad. Nat. Sci. Phila., I860, p. 339 (type, 



stramineui). 

 Bergenia STEINDACHNER, Voyage of the Novara, Vol. V, 1876, p. 92. 



The body is stout and cylindrical, with short tail, and 

 without constriction at neck. The snout protrudes far be- 

 yond the lower jaw, and is rounded, greatly depressed, and 

 pointed in profile. The internasal is merged in the anterior 

 nasal which, therefore, extends onto the top of the snout. 



