Natural History
LIFE
In August, mature fox snakes have their mating season, which means the eggs are able to be laid by the females in late August to October. Female fox snakes
lay approximately 10-20 eggs. When fox snakes hatch, they are about 8-12 inches in length. These young snakes grow into snakes approximately 36-56 inches, making it one of Iowa’s largest snake species. Adult fox snakes are colored ranging from straw yellow to dark brown, but they may have orange, yellow, or reddish pigment between the scales. They also have large dark brown and/or black blotches. As they age, these blotches become rings on the tail. Fox snakes have underbellies that are dirty yellow with black checkering. Fox snakes live to be approximately 20 years old.

HABITAT AND RANGE
The fox snake is found in very moist habitats, which sets the snake apart from other large Iowa snakes. This means they are commonly found in woodlands, woodland edges, prairies, lowland meadows, and rocky outcroppings near rivers. They especially enjoy river and stream valleys. Despite this, they can also be found within city limits because they are able to more readily adapt to habitat disturbance by humans. Their habitat preferences make them the most common snake in Iowa. However, south central Iowa counties tend to have lower numbers of fox snakes, most likely due to the increased number of king snakes in these areas.

DIET
Western fox snakes most commonly consume rodents, particularly rats. Young snakes are also able to feed on frogs and young mice, while older snakes are able to eat birds and their eggs. Their feeding habits make them a very powerful constrictor.

CONSERVATION STATUS
Fox snakes are protected in Iowa due to their low population. Because of this, it is illegal to kill or collect this species under Iowa law.


SOURCE: LeClere, J. (2020). Western Foxsnake
(Pantherophis ramspotti). Retrieved July 15, 2020,
from http://www.herpnet.net/Iowa-
Herpetology/reptiles/snakes/western-fox-snakepantherophis-
ramspotti/
Brinker, A. (2020). Pantherophis vulpinus (Western
Fox Snake). Retrieved July 15, 2020, from
https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Pantherophis_vulpinus/#0c56c74b11

Kathy's Story
Hartman Reserve Nature Center’s Fox Snake, Kathy,
was found on the porch of a daycare south of Waterloo
in June of 2018. Our naturalist rescued her and later
found out she was gravid (pregnant). Unfortunately,
Kathy’s eggs could not be successfully incubated.
However, Kathy has remained at the center since then.

Range Map Source: Herpnet
​