No offense but they are in fact a Rat Snake and if you're basing your conclusions on movement it is even more apparent. I've collected 2.2 of which 2.1 were hatchlings from the year before found out in early Spring. All 4 were completely motionless on the road and didn't move an inch until I actually touched them w/my hand. Most accounts from the field attest to the same behavior.

On the otherhand, ALL Whipsnakes were motionless sometimes until I pulled along side them then blasted off the road..others merely blasted across the road as I got w/in 10 yards or so. Additionally they are true constrictors and by no means "sight-hunters" like the local Whipsnakes.

Lastly, I have yet to see the Racer or Whipsnake that is most active in the low 70s to high 60s at the end of the day. Maybe out early basking to start the day but not as the evening dominates.

Pure behavioral points aside, there is a host of physiological reasons why Senticolis has been placed in the Rat Snake category. The differences are obvious to even the casual observer.

Bill

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