Coachwhip

**Coachwhip**

The coachwhip, *Masticophis flagellum*, is a non-venomous colubrid snake with smooth, overlapping scales, a long, slender body, and large eyes which aid in hunting. They typically average in the 3-6 foot range as adults; however the record longest coachwhip is over 8 feet long. They do not rely on venom or constriction as many snakes do. Instead, coachwhips are active hunters, relying on speed. Once the prey is caught it will be eaten alive. Prey for the coachwhip include: lizards, amphibians, rodents, birds, and other snakes, including venomous snakes. Coachwhips appear to be immune to the venom of other snakes which they prey on. Their range covers the majority of the souther half of the US from the west coast to the east coast and into Mexico.

Coachwhips can be [unicolored](http://snr.unl.edu/herpneb/images/snake/Masfla.gif) or [multicolored](http://herpsofnc.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Masticophis-flagellum-5.16.03-Kiawah-I.-SC-top-copy.jpg). Juveniles are [patterned](https://tucsonherpsociety.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/Juvenile-Coachwhip.jpg); it fades over time.

Coachwhips get their name from their resemblance to a braided whip, especially in the last 1/3 of the body and tail. They also are very well known for [periscoping](https://www.flickr.com/photos/115438345@N04/13858015575), which they do for a couple of reasons: 1) Looking for prey, and a bigger reason, 2) they are naturally nervous and are keeping a keen eye on their surroundings.


- [Here is one preying on a patch-nosed snake](https://www.flickr.com/photos/gdschermer/19480457268)

[Range map](http://www.californiaherps.com/snakes/maps/xcflagellumspeciesmap3.jpg).