Racer {Coluber constrictor). 



Description: A slender, but moderately long snake, the Racer ranges from 20-65 inches in total 

 length. Adult coloration is uniform across the dorsal side but it can vary from a greenish- 

 gTay to brown or blue. The ventral side is whitish to pale yellow, the latter color extending 

 onto the upper labials and nasal region of the head. The eyes are relatively large. The scales 

 are smooth and the anal plate is divided. A clutch of 3-7 eggs is laid in the summer (Stebbins 

 1985). Young snakes (up to about 20") have a much different coloration than the adults 

 consisting of a series of dorsal brown blotches edged with black which run the length of the 

 animal. A row of blotches is also found on each side of the animal extending onto the ventral 

 side. 



Habitat and Habits: The Racer is associated with more open habitats either in shortgrass or 

 forested areas. It preys on mice, frogs, insects, and the like. 



Surveying: Walk-through surveys coupled with mark-recapture methods offer the best 

 opportunity for determining population status. Rolling over rocks and logs and timing 

 surveys for warm sunny days enhances sampling success. 



Status: The Racer was not seen in this survey, however several records are given in Davis 

 (1963). Given its likely habitat in northwestern Montana of dry, open, low elevation sites, 

 and our concentration of surveys in wet areas, little can be said about its current status. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5. 



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