Western Hognose Snake
Heterodon nasicus
A stout, upturned-nosed colubrid of the North American prairies, known for its bluffing displays and generally docile nature.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Central United States, southern Canada, and northern Mexico
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Overview
The Western Hognose Snake inhabits the dry grasslands and sandy plains of central North America, where it uses its distinctively upturned snout to burrow after buried prey.
It shares the same theatrical defensive repertoire as its eastern relative, including hooding and death-feigning, though it is generally considered even more mild-mannered.
How to identify it
- Tan, brown, or gray coloration with dark blotches along the back and sides
- Strongly upturned, spade-like snout
- Stocky body with keeled scales
- Round pupils
- Smaller and stockier overall than the Eastern Hognose Snake
- Distinguished from vipers by round pupils and lack of a triangular head
Habitat & range
Found in prairies, sandy plains, and semi-arid grasslands across the central United States, southern Canada, and northern Mexico.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, feeding primarily on toads, lizards, and small rodents, often dug out of soil with its snout. Displays defensive hooding, hissing, and death-feigning when threatened. Oviparous.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Western Hognose Snake dangerous?
No, it poses little to no threat to humans; its mild venom is adapted to subduing small prey, not defense.
How does it differ from the Eastern Hognose Snake?
It is generally smaller and stockier, with a range centered on the central prairies rather than the eastern U.S.
What is its snout used for?
Its upturned snout helps it dig into sandy soil to find buried prey such as toads and lizards.
Does it play dead too?
Yes, like the Eastern Hognose, it will feign death when sufficiently threatened.
Western Hognose Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Western Hognose Snake.
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