I04 THE AMERICAN MUSEUM JOURNAL 



The general color abo\'e is black, the scales of the sides show- 

 ing white edges when the body is distended. Beneath, the color 

 is white, blotched with gray on the forward portion ; posteriorly 

 the gray becomes suffused over the entire surface ; the chin and 

 throat are white and immaculate. Close examination will reveal 

 the scales of the back to be faintly keeled, which characteristic 

 at once separates the species from the Black Snake. The head 

 is broad and rather fiat; the under surface of the body is so 

 abruptly flattened as to form right angles with the sides. 



This species is built rather for climbing than for speed, and 

 generally frequents low bushes, where it lies in wait for V)irds 

 and small mammals. The species attains a length of more than 

 six feet. It is oviparous. 



Range: Eastern United States from IMaine to Florida; the 

 Central States; in the South the species extends westward to 

 Texas. 



Local distribution: Highlands of the Hudson; not common. 



The Hog-nosed Snake, Heterodon platyrhinus (Figs. lo and 

 ii), may be recognized by its sharp, upturned snout, which 

 shovel-like appendage is employed to assist the reptile 

 Snake ^^ burrowing in the sandy soil in which it lives. The 



markings of this peculiar snake are extremely variable, 

 but the color is generally yellowish brown, with dark brown or 

 black irregular cross-bands. Some specimens show brilliant 

 shades of yellow and red ; others are entirely black. The latter 

 constitute the variety niger. 



The species is stout in body, and the scales are keeled. When 

 annoyed, it assumes a threatening attitude by flattening the 

 head and neck and hissing loudly. In spite of its hostile de- 

 meanor, it seldom attempts to bite, but contents itself bv en- 

 deavoring to frighten the object of its annoyance by its eccentric 

 antics. In different localities the species has been given ap- 

 pellations that have placed this harmless reptile in bad repute. 

 Such names as "Flat-headed Adder," "Blowing Viper" and 

 "Spreading Adder" are energetically used by the farmer who 

 usually refuses to be convinced that this snake is not akin in 

 poisonous faculties to the Copperhead, to which it bears some 

 resemblance in proportions and markings. 



