114 COLUBERqUADRIVITTATUS. 



marginal dashes of white, which become visible when the skin is extended, and 

 give the animal a reticulated appearance. The skin between the scales is blackish. 



Dimensions. Length of the head, 1| inches: total length, 4 feet 5 inches, of 

 which the tail occupies 10 inches. It however grows to the length of six or seven 

 feet. 



Geographical Distribution. It is found from North Carolina to Florida, and 

 westward as far as the Mississippi: being entirely unknown in the northern and 

 middle States. 



Habits. This animal is by no means rare in South Carolina; frequenting the 

 vicinity of houses, and sometimes making its way into the cabins of the negroes. 

 It is however perfectly innoxious, though in bad repute with respect to young 

 chickens. Bartram suggests that it might be rendered useful in destroying rats, 

 as it is easily tamed and soon becomes familiar. 



General Remarks. This animal, though described by Bartram so long ago as 

 1791, has not since been noticed by any systematic writer. It is closely allied to 

 C. Alleghaniensis, and also to C. obsoletus, to C. guttatus and eximius, and to C. 

 Sayi and getulus. These all have the tail short, and are remarkable for their 

 gentle disposition. The C. ^Esculapii of Europe, Zamenis of Wagler, approaches 

 these species, though the tail is a little longer in proportion. 



