fox snake

reptile

Also known as: Elaphe vulpina

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The fox snake (Elaphe vulpina) is a common rodent-eating snake found in the upper Mississippi Valley. As a reptile, it belongs to the larger group of snakes, which are predators. While some snakes are venomous, most species are harmless to humans. Snakes are often solitary, with their primary activities focused on thermoregulation and finding food. The term "fox snake" is specific to this particular species, and it's important to distinguish it from other snake types like "cat snakes" or "wolf snakes," which have different characteristics and geographical distributions.12345

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rat snake
The fox snake (E. vulpina), chiefly of farmlands of Wisconsin to Missouri, is yellowish or pale brown above, with strong dark blotches, and yellow below, with black checkering. Its head may be quite reddish.
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The fox snake (E. vulpina), chiefly of farmlands of Wisconsin to Missouri, is yellowish or pale brown above, with strong dark blotches, and yellow below, with black checkering. Its head may be quite reddish.
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reptile
Avoidance and noise
…without rattles, such as the fox snake (Elaphe vulpina) of the United States, often rapidly vibrate the ends of their tails. Often, the tail will come into contact with dry leaves, and the resulting sound will seem deceptively like the rattle of a rattlesnake.
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…without rattles, such as the fox snake (Elaphe vulpina) of the United States, often rapidly vibrate the ends of their tails. Often, the tail will come into contact with dry leaves, and the resulting sound will seem deceptively like the rattle of a rattlesnake.
Read More