Western Foxsnake Pantherophis ramspotti

Identification
This species has a yellowish body with dark blotches and a copper colored head. It resembles the Eastern Foxsnake but differs in range.

Location
Rare in Ohio

Size
36 to 70 inches

Diet
It feeds mainly on rodents and birds.

Habitat
It occurs 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.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females lay eggs in early summer.

Population
The population is small and vulnerable.

History
It has historically been restricted to northern marshlands.

Human Interactions
It is harmless but often misidentified.

Facts
It is closely related to the Eastern Foxsnake.

Sources
ODNR NatureServe

Rodents birds eggs small mammals | Wetlands marshes coastal areas | Lake Erie region