15-42 inches. May be either pale gray, tan or brown with several
rows of black spots down the back and sides, or, overall black
or dark brown with a paler underside; scales keeled and in 25
rows. In young snakes the scales down the middle of the back are
red or orange. The scale on the tip of the snout is pointed and
upturned. Hog-nosed snakes favor dry habitats with loose soils,
preferably in mixed wooded and open country. Hog-nosed snakes
rarely bite, but have a surprising repertoire of defensive
behaviors. Upon first encounter, hog-nosed snakes will flatten
and spread their necks cobra fashion. They will then hiss and
strike, although the striking behavior is all bluff and no bite.
If these postures don't scare off the potential predator, the
snake will roll onto its back and play dead. Hog- nosed snakes
feedprimarily on toads and frogs. They lay from 4-61 eggs.
Throughout the state, except swamplands, and only on high ground
in the marshes.