Common Name
western fox snake

When threatened, the western fox snake will vibrate its tail on the ground to produce a buzzing sound. This behavior can lead to mistaken identificaton of the rattlesnake.

Iowa Range
central Iowa and along Missouri and Mississippi River

Habitat
farmlands, stream valleys, prairies, and woods

Description
The ground color of the western fox snake varies from yellowish to light brown, with dark spots of chocolate to black. The head usually lacks any markings. The belly is yellow and strongly checkered with black. Larger dorsal blotches usually number 41. The scales are weekly keeled and the anal plate is divided.