Longnose Snake

Young adult Longnose Snake

Photo Credit: Doug Burkett

Longnose Snake- Rhinocheilus lecontei

This species enjoys deserts, grasslands, and shrublands and can be seen in New Mexico, as well as many other southwestern states and down into Mexico. It is a non-venomous, nocturnal snake, that tends to enjoy burrowing. It gets its name from a distinct long, upturned snout, a tricolor pattern of black, red, and white/cream-colored bands, and smooth, shiny scales. I can sometimes be mistaken for a venomous coral snake to those that aren’t familiar with native species. Being a smaller snake averaging around 30 inches as adults, their main diet consists of lizards and amphibians while occasionally preying on smaller snakes and infrequently, young rodents. These guys are a really beautiful species and definitely shows off natures ability to create color.