A Guide to the Amphibians
and Reptiles of California

Striped Racers (Whipsnakes) found in California

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Striped Racers (also known as Whipsnakes) are long, slender, fast-moving, diurnal snakes inhabiting chaparral, scrubland, open woodlands, rocky hillsides, mostly in the foothills, but also in higher-elevation mixed woodlands. Most often found moving rapidly across the ground. Can also be found moving with the head and forward part of the body raised off the ground. Sometimes found hiding under surface objects. Two subspecies occur in California, with the Alameda Striped Racer only occuring in isolated areas just east of the San Francisco Bay.

California Striped Racer (Chaparral Whipsnake) Coluber (=Masticophis) lateralis lateralis

Alameda Striped Racer (Alameda Whipsnake) Coluber (=Masticophis) lateralis euryxanthus