Eastern Hognose Snake - Heterodon platirhinos

Description: Approx. 20-33" in length. Has upturned snout, coloration varies from yellow, brown, gray, orange, red, black or olive. Normally spotted but can be solid black or plain gray in some areas. Belly is mottled gray or greenish on yellow, light gray or pinkish. Underside of tail is lighter than belly.

Habitat: prefers sandy areas. Eats frogs & toads; young may also eat insects.

Range: Prairielands of Texas to S. Iowa & Wisconsin and east to S. Pennsylvania. & Florida

Notes: The dunes provide great habitat for snakes, many of which are becoming rare in Iowa due to habitat loss. Protects itself from other predators with hissing, head & neck-spreading and playing opossum.

Photo by: Eugene Kromray
Location: Eddyville Dunes, South Central Iowa