Eastern Foxsnake Pantherophis vulpinus
Identification
This species has a yellowish body with dark blotches and a copper colored head. Its pattern resembles that of some rattlesnakes.
Location
Rare in Ohio
Size
36 to 70 inches
Diet
It feeds mainly on rodents and birds and uses constriction to subdue prey.
Habitat
It occurs mainly in the Lake Erie marsh region.
Activity Period
April to October
Behavior
It is calm and often vibrates its tail when threatened. It is an excellent climber and swimmer. It is most active in warm months and uses both ground and elevated perches.
Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.
Population
The population is small and vulnerable to habitat loss.
History
It has historically been restricted to northern marshlands.
Human Interactions
It is harmless but often misidentified.
Facts
It is one of Ohios rarest snakes.
Sources
ODNR USFWS
Rodents birds eggs small mammals | Wetlands marshes coastal areas | Lake Erie region