Habitat of the Missouri Hog-Nosed Snake

Sandy prairies and wooded or forested areas are the preferred habitat of Missouri hog-nosed snakes. These snakes are typically grayish-brown or tan and have distinctive brown markings down their backs. Another distinguishing characteristic is their sharply upturned snouts. They feed on mice, rats, lizards, toads and frogs; they're a food source for hawks, owls, mink, skunk and herons. Their average length is 16 to 35 inches.

  1. Location

    • There were once three species of the hog-nosed snake in Missouri. The eastern hog-nosed snake still exists statewide. The plains hog-nosed snake lived in northwestern Missouri but is now classified as extirpated and has not been seen since 1961. The dusty hog-nosed snake was also classified as extirpated until one was spotted in 2004. Four more dusty hog-nosed snakes have been verified since then. The dusty hog-nosed snake has a more sharply upturned nose than the eastern hog-nosed snake. It is different from the eastern hog-nosed snake because of the black pigment located on the underside of the tail. The underside of the eastern hog-nosed snake's tail is yellow.

    Habitat

    • Missouri has a variety of habitats for wildlife and is home to 51 different species and subspecies of snake, including the eastern and plains hog-nosed snakes. The ideal habitat for the hog-nosed snake in Missouri is loose-soiled, sandy prairies or open woods. Ponds near forested areas provide a valuable addition to hog-nosed-snake habitat. Diverse types of shelters, such as brush piles, rock piles and logs, are necessary for the survival of these snakes. These shelters provide security and increase the availability of food sources.

    Behavior

    • Missouri hog-nosed snakes are nonvenomous, but they will bite if startled or to defend themselves. Their bite, however, produces nothing more than scratches. The primary defense mechanism of a hog-nosed snake is to hiss loudly and spread its neck like a cobra. Its secondary line of defense against predators is to roll onto its back and play dead. The hog-nosed snake may emit a foul musk from the cloaca and hang its tongue from its mouth.

    Safety and Prevention

    • Although Missouri hog-nosed snakes are considered harmless, it is important to be aware of areas and objects that attract hog-nosed snakes. Piles of boards or fence posts, dump heaps, brush piles, heavy vegetation, tall grass, bushes and ponds provide hiding places for these snakes and the food they eat. Also, inspect foundations, doors and low windows to ensure there are no openings where snakes can enter.