Animals (continued)

REPTILES

The PRAIRIE RATTLESNAKE is the only poisonous snake in the badlands. It is not abundant, but you may encounter it when walking through the grass or wandering from the main roads. The rattling sound made by this reptile is produced by the vibration of "rattles" attached to the end of the tail. This rattlesnake is grayish green in general coloration, with the back marked by a row of circular brown splotches. In averages 2 to 3 feet in length, and has the characteristically triangular head of rattlesnakes. When alarmed, it rattles vigorously and, if approached too closely, strikes by throwing its body forward from a coiled position. The bite may be fatal if not promptly treated.

CAUTION: Wear high-topped shoes and remain alert when walking about in the badlands.

There is a persistent myth that rattlesnakes, owls, and prairie dogs live together in harmony. Both rattlesnakes and burrowing owls often occupy deserted prairie-dog burrows; but it is not true than the three live together.

The largest reptile in the badlands is the nonpoisonous BULL SNAKE, which reaches a length of 5 to 6 feet. Sometimes it is called the "yellow gopher snake" because of its orange-yellow body color. It also has a row of large, square, reddish-brown or black splotches along the back. Farmers consider this reptile decidedly beneficial in than its principal diet is small rodents such as mice and gophers.

The BLUE RACER, a color variety of the black snake, is abundant west of the Mississippi River. It is bluish green or olive, with a pale-yellow belly. The average length is from 3 to 4 feet. As the name implies, the racers are extremely swift in their movements.

The RED-BARRED GARTER SNAKE is common on the Great Plains. It is marked with a central stripe down the back, with fused black spots on each side. The bars are brick red—hence the name. The head is a pale-olive color. The snake feeds on earthworms and often eats toads and frogs. It is harmless to man.

The HOG-NOSED SNAKE, commonly known as "puff adder," often lives in dry, sandy places. Its name is derived from the blunt, upturned nose. It is a harmless reptile, whose bad reputation is due entirely to its defensive behavior and rather pugnacious appearance. When you encounter this snake, it may rear its head, spread its neck in unconscious mimicry of the cobra, open its mouth wide, flatten its stout body, hiss, and strike repeatedly—but not bite. If this ferocious performance does not frighten you away, it may then "play dead" by flopping over onto its back. Beyond these bluffing antics, the hog-nosed snake seems to have no means of self-defense.

The food of the hog-nosed snake is chiefly toads and insects. It may attain a length of 2 to 3 feet. You will recognize it most easily by its actions. The hoglike snout, stout body, and pattern of dark patches on brown or red background, with a yellow belly blotched on the sides with black, make identification certain.