Common Name
prairie kingsnake

Iowa Range
southern Iowa

Habitat
grasslands and open woodlands

Description
The prairie kingsnake has a row of dark blotches on its dorsal surface that number between 40 to 65. Alternating rows of dark spots are also present on the sides. The ground color ranges from tan to brownish gray. The ventral surface is covered with squarish brown spots over a yellowish color. The scales are smooth and the anal plate is singular.