Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Anyone know the westernmost limit of the Schott's Whipsnake range?

A couple of days ago, I observed a stunning Central Texas Whipsnake (and a cute little Big Bend Patchnose) while hiking on some of my Terlingua Ranch property. The sighting got me thinking about prior whipsnake sightings in the area.

While reviewing Tennant's Field Guide to Texas Snakes, I was surprised to note the western range of Schott's Whipsnake ends around Del Rio. I was sure I've seen these on Terlingua Ranch and a large DOR along 170 just east of Lajitas. Could they range out this far, or did I just mis-identify them in an attempt to expand my life list?

Eby, Werler and Dixon also show schotti's range to be about Del Rio, Perhaps The Pecos and Rio Grande are too big an obstacle? I have only observed them in Nueces county, Jim Wells county, Refugio county, and dor's along U.S.77 south from Kingsville to about Raymondville, so Kennedy and Kleberg counties, but it says they prefer to stay close to streambeds and ponds in arid habitats, so if Indigos can make it across the big rivers, I say it is possible, even plausible.
Todd Hughes

Schott's whipsnake used to be a subspecies of Masticophis taeniatus until the mid 80s. Jeff Camper did his PhD disseration on the species and found (using allozymes, I believe) that the two species came together right around the Pecos River somewhere. I don't think he saw any evidence of hybridization between the species so that was the basis for separating the two taxa. So somewhere right around the Pecos should be the western edge of the range.
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Chris Harrison
San Antonio, Texas

Chris & Todd,
Thanks for the informative responses. Sure wish I had preserved the DOR I found on 170. On review, I've concluded that is the only one of my "Schotts" that may have possibly been a Schotts (near the Rio and most convincing "Schotts" pattern). Although, I'm leaning toward admitting it must have been a misidentified CTW.

I guess now I have to take Schotts off my list and plan a south Texas trip to redeem myself. Heck, maybe I'll get lucky and add a live Mex Milk (so far only DOR) and an Indigo..

Daryl Eby

Pretty common down my way, I would be surprised if you didn't find a few if you targeted them. be sure to look in short bushes at night, I have seen a few sleeping about shoulder high. Found four adults basking on some "bamboo" above a creek, 3 bolted, 1 was in deep shed and got nabbed, and I flip 'em under trash in winter occasionally. You may have gotten one, like I said they can swim, just think sometimes rivers are a barrier of choice, just my opinion. C'mon down and we'll shorten that list! March-April!
Todd Hughes

Sounds like a plan. I could probably use a break by then. I'll check back with you when it gets closer to time. Maybe you can point me to some good spots and/or meet up with me if your around.

I've only herped south Texas once or twice. Saw lots of variety but missed my main targets (indigos, mex milk, and speckled racer). I'd love to see and photograph any of these, plus of course the whip. Actually finding any herps in the field is always a thrill.

I don't keep herps anymore, but I still love the chase.

Daryl Eby
daryl@mountaindesert.com

We shouls do it then, 'cause I still need Drymobius as well! A long cruise but worth it at the right time. Keep in touch, we'll give it a go come spring.
Todd Hughes

Sounds great.

I just shot you an email. Let me know if you don't get it.

Got it!
Todd Hughes