Is the Alameda whipsnake endangered?
The Alameda whipsnake is a threatened species. Threatened species are plants and animals whose population numbers are so low that they may become endangered in the future. Endangered species are plants and animals that are in immediate danger of becoming extinct.
Why is the Alameda whipsnake endangered?
Approximately, 60 percent of the snake’s habitat is owned by the public. One of the major threats to the Alameda whipsnake is habitat loss as a result of urban expansion.
Where does the Alameda whipsnake live?
chaparral
HABITAT: The whipsnake is primarily found in northern coastal scrub and chaparral habitats in Alameda and Contra Costa counties. It also may occur in grasslands, open woodlands, rocky slopes, and along open streams and arroyos near scrub and chaparral.
Is the California whipsnake venomous?
The California whipsnake has been observed moving into the top of scrub plants after emerging from nightly retreats to gain access to direct sunlight before the sunlight reaches ground level. It is not venomous, but likely to strike if captured.
Are there whip snakes in Florida?
Six subspecies of coachwhip snakes are currently recognized, but only the Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum) occurs in Florida. The name “Coachwhip” comes from the large tan scales on its long, slowly tapering tail, which give it the appearance of a braided bullwhip.
Is there a coachwhip snake?
Masticophis flagellum is a species of nonvenomous colubrid snake, commonly referred to as the coachwhip or the whip snake, which is endemic to the United States and Mexico. Six subspecies are recognized, including the nominotypical subspecies.
Do whip snakes hibernate?
HIBERNATION. In November Alameda whipsnakes hibernate. They go into a small mammal burrow, rock crevice or other shelter. They may come out a few times during winter.
Do Coachwhip snakes eat rattlesnakes?
Coachwhips (Masticophis spp.) are fast visual hunters that often prowl with their heads held high off the ground. Though their typical prey includes rodents, birds, lizards and eggs, coachwhips will eagerly consume rattlesnakes when they have the chance.
Will a coachwhip snake chase you?
According to folklore, the coachwhip – a non-venomous snake that is surprisingly swift – will pursue and attack a person, squeezing its victim in its coils and lashing him to death with its tail.
When was the Alameda whipsnake listed as an endangered species?
The Alameda whipsnake was first listed as a threatened species under the California Endangered Species Act in 1971 and the US Endangered Species Act listed it in 1997. The first 5-year review was established in 2011 and recommended no change from current listing.
When do Alameda whipsnakes hibernate in the spring?
Grassland habitats are used by male whipsnakes most extensively during the mating season in spring. Female whipsnakes use grassland areas most extensively after mating, possibly in their search for suitable sites to lay their eggs. In November, Alameda whipsnakes hibernate in their hibernaculum (shelter).
Where do you find whipsnakes in Northern California?
The California whipsnake is found in California’s northern and coastal chaparral. The Alameda whipsnake is a wary creature known for its speed and climbing abilities utilized when escaping predators or hunting prey. In winter months, the Alameda whipsnake hibernates in rock crevices and rodent burrows.
How big does an Alameda striped racer get?
Whipsnakes are slender and fast-moving, earning them the more common name, “Alameda striped racer.” Adults can grow to a length of 91 to 122 centimeters (3 to 4 feet).They are active mainly during the day. When threatened, the Alameda whipsnake can easily escape into scrub or trees because they are good climbers. Whipsnakes are not dangerous.