Facts About Speckled Racer
The speckled racer (Drymobius margaritiferus) is a nonvenomous snake belonging to the colubrid family, found throughout the Americas. Its Latin name, margaritiferus, translates to "pearl-bearing" referring to the pearl-like spots on its back. This snake's range spans from the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas to Colombia and is often called the northern speckled racer due to its northernmost habitat within its genus.
Typically, this snake is black with yellow and blue spots, giving it a greenish tint. It usually grows to about 30-40 inches in length, though some individuals can reach up to 50 inches. The scales on its back are keeled in the middle but smooth on the sides and are arranged in 17 rows. It has between 142-168 belly scales (ventrals) and 85-126 scales under its tail (subcaudals).
Speckled racers are known for their quick movements and nervous disposition, and they may bite if handled. They lay up to eight eggs in the spring or summer, which take about two months to hatch. The hatchlings are approximately six inches long and reach adulthood in 2-3 years.
There are four recognized subspecies of the speckled racer:
- Drymobius margaritiferus margaritiferus
- Drymobius margaritiferus fistulosus
- Drymobius margaritiferus occidentalis
- Drymobius margaritiferus maydis
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