frequently asked q u e s t i o n s critter f i e l d   g u i d e what is it? g u e s s   g a m e ask jim y o u r   q u e s t i o n s critter care i n s t r u c t i o n s links f o r   m o r e   i n f o Critterguy / Critter Field Guide / Snakes / western fox snake Critter Field Guide: Snakes of Michigan western fox snake Elaphe vulpina western fox snake Description A large yellowish or light brown snake with dark brown or black blotches down the back and sides. The head may be reddish or orange, and the belly is yellowish, checkered with black. Two different species of fox snake occur in Michigan (see below); though they are similar in color, their ranges do not overlap. Adult Length: 3 to 5 feet. Habitat and Habits The Western Fox Snake (Elaphe vulpina) inhabits woods, old fields, and dune areas in the U.P. The Eastern Fox Snake (Elaphe gloydi) prefers marshes and adjacent wet meadows in the southeastern L.P. Fox snakes feed on rodents, frogs, and birds. When threatened, they may coil, vibrate their tails, and strike, but are non-venomous. Reproduction Seven to 29 eggs are laid in early summer, usually under a log or in rotted wood. The young, colored much like the adults, hatch in about 60 days. Range and Status The Western Fox Snake is found in the Upper Peninsula, where it is often called a "pine snake." The Eastern Fox Snake, of the Great Lakes marshes in the southeastern Lower Peninsula, is listed as a THREATENED species and is protected by law in Michigan. Acknowledgement James Harding MSU Museum Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824 (517) 353-7978 hardingj@msu.edu © Copyright 2004. All Rights Reserved.