Striped Racers (Whipsnakes) found in California

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.



                           
Alameda Striped Racer (Alameda Whipsnake)                California Striped Racer (Chaparral Whipsnake)
Masticophis lateralis euryxanthus                                                    Masticophis lateralis lateralis

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