Racer {Coluber constrictor). 



Description: A slender, but moderately long snake, the adult Racer ranges from 40-163 cm in 

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

 greenish-gray 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). Yoimg snakes (up to about 40 cm) 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, bird eggs and nestlings, and the like. There 

 are few records of this species in the BNF area, mostly from below 5000' elevation. Surface 

 activity has been noted from 27 April to 17 September. The single adult seen in 1995 (on 31 

 August) measured 42 cm total length. 



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. Road surveys on warm evenings 

 are a good way to sample for snakes that warm themselves on the road surface. 



Status: The Racer has been reported only five times in the BNF area, all from the Skalkaho 

 Creek and Sleeping Child Creek drainages on the Darby District. The five records span 

 more than 60 years (1932-1995), suggesting that reproduction is sufficient to maintain a 

 viable population. It is a mystery why this snake is not reported from more areas, as there 

 appears to be suitable habitat many places around the Bitterroot Valley. It should be looked 

 for in more open mesic sites (especially near water), and any sightings should be reported. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5. 



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