Posted by:
erik loza
at Thu Jul 24 01:52:54 2003 [ Email Message ] [ Show All Posts by erik loza ]
That was probably a Chaparral Whipsnake (Masticophis l. lateralis). They're pretty common in the foothills, a lot bigger than any Thamnophis, and often do the sort of thing you describe. They're pretty abundant in southern California and a little less so up here. I typically see them while looking for zonata and boas at higher elevations than Amador, though periodically flip them each spring in the 2,500'-3,000' elevations, as well. For a good look, check out Robert Stebbins Field Guide to Western Reptiles and Amphibians.
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