Western fox snake
Pantherophis ramspotti, commonly known as the western fox snake, is a species of rat snake that is endemic to the upper midwestern United States, west of the Mississippi river. It is non-venomous.
The scientific name, ramspotti, is in honor of the late aspiring herpetologist Joseph Ramspott.
Pantherophis ramspotti is found in the upper Midwestern United States, west of the Mississippi River.
The range of the closely related Pantherophis vulpinus is east of the Mississippi river. The two species do not overlap and there is no intergrade zone.
These snakes are fairly bold and will travel in close proximity to other animals and humans if undisturbed. When confronted, they 'rattle' their tail to imitate a rattlesnake and attempt to deter the perceived threat. They will also go into the S position and snap rapidly in succession. These are all defensive maneuvers in an effort to escape.
Fox snakes are constrictors and primarily feed on mice and other small rodents. They may also consume young rabbits, frogs, and eggs.
