Western Yellow-Bellied Racer

• Size: 20-75" long
• Diet: Eats lizards, small mammals, birds, eggs, snakes, small turtles and frogs, and large insects
• Seasonal Habits: Live in dens called hibernacula during the winter and return to the surface in May
• Temperament: If grabbed, they will defend themselves by biting, but if left alone they are completely harmless

The name "Racer" is no accident, these snakes are built for speed. Racers are active snakes, and they use their excellent vision and speed to hunt during the day. Not only are Racers good on the ground, they also are good climbers and occasionally are found hunting high in the bushes. It is visually similar to the eastern yellow-bellied racer, which is also green, blue or brown with a recognizable yellow underside.