Reptiles
Trans-Pecos Rat Snake
Bogertophis subocularis · also called Trans-Pecos rat snakes
Near the mouth of a limestone cave in a rugged Chihuahuan Desert canyon, a Trans-Pecos rat snake waits motionless after dark, its unusually large eyes tracking bats returning to roost, an opportunity most other rat snake species sharing this desert would never think to exploit.
Overview
The Trans-Pecos rat snake, Bogertophis subocularis, is a distinctively patterned, nocturnal snake native to the Chihuahuan Desert region of far western Texas, southern New Mexico, and adjacent Mexico. Its large eyes, striking H-shaped dorsal pattern, and unusual habit of preying on bats make it one of the more visually and behaviourally notable rat snakes in North America.
A rat snake with a taste for bats
While most rat snakes stick to rodents and birds, the Trans-Pecos rat snake has found an additional food source most relatives overlook entirely, positioning itself near cave and crevice roosts to intercept bats that never expected a predator waiting at the entrance.
Status
Least Concern — present across suitable rocky desert and canyon habitat throughout the Chihuahuan Desert region.
Trans-Pecos Rat Snake: common questions
Why does the Trans-Pecos rat snake have such large eyes?
The Trans-Pecos rat snake has notably large eyes relative to its head, an adaptation well suited to its primarily nocturnal hunting habits, helping it locate rodents and bats in the low-light conditions typical of its rugged desert canyon habitat after dark.
Does the Trans-Pecos rat snake really eat bats?
Yes, the Trans-Pecos rat snake is known to prey on bats, sometimes catching them near cave or crevice roost entrances where bats are more vulnerable and accessible, a hunting opportunity made possible by the snake's close association with the same rocky canyon habitat many bat species use for roosting.
Is the Trans-Pecos rat snake kept as a pet?
Yes, the Trans-Pecos rat snake is a popular species among reptile keepers, valued for its generally calm temperament and its distinctive H-shaped or blotched pattern, making it one of the more sought-after North American rat snake species in the hobby.
Where does the Trans-Pecos rat snake live?
The Trans-Pecos rat snake is native to the Chihuahuan Desert region of far western Texas, southern New Mexico, and adjacent Mexico, generally favouring rugged limestone canyons and rocky slopes within this arid landscape.