Colorado Herpetological Society's

Guide to the Reptiles and Amphibians of Colorado

Western Hognose Snake
(Heterodon nasicus)

Family Colubridae

Photo from Hammerson, 1986.
Used with permission.

Last Updated on January 20, 2000.

Western Hognose Snake (Heterodon nasicus)
Description: Adults 16" to 35" in length. Color light brown, with dorsal row of dark brown blotches. Row of smaller blotches on sides. Stout body; scales keeled. Enlarged and upturned scale on nose, giving snout a spade-like appearance (hence 'hognose' snake). Divided anal plate. Elevation Range: Below 6000' in eastern Colorado. Subspecies in Colorado: Heterodon nasicus nasicus