AmphibiansReptiles
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Eastern Milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum)
DescriptionThe Milksnake is a small to medium-sized snake. Its color pattern is highly variable, with red or orange blotches outlined in black and separated by lighter bands. The general coloration of the lighter bands seems to distinguish two color phases in Arkansas: gray and white/cream. The black outlining may not extend completely around the red/orange blotches, especially toward the head; this gives the snake a more banded appearance. The belly patterning is usually black and white checkered. I have caught a few individuals that had a mostly plain, creme belly. Two subspecies, the Louisiana Milksnake (L. t. amaura) and Red Milksnake (L. t. syspila), occur in the state. There seems to be no clear way to distinguish between these subspecies. In the past, head coloration has been used, but its reliability is questionable. I have personally caught numerous Red Milksnakes that have displayed a gamut of different head colorations. For now, the best indicator of subspecies in Arkansas may simply be to check a range map. This species can be distinguished from the less common Scarletsnake (the other nonvenomous "tricolored" in Arkansas) by the shape of its head. The Milksnake has a decidedly more rounded snout than in the Scarletsnake. Also, the Milksnake (usually) has a patterned belly, whereas the Scarletsnake's is plain. This species of coralsnake mimic can be distinguished from the This tricolored snake is sometimes incorrectly called a Scarlet Kingsnake. Lampropeltis elapsoides is the true Scarlet Kingsnake and is not found in Arkansas.  HabitatsAlthough some field guides indicate that this species prefers moist habitats, I have personally found just the opposite to be true. I have found the vast majority of Milksnakes in dry, rocky habitats such as rocky pastures, rocky hillsides, and similar areas with numerous "flipping rocks". I have had good success finding this species in abandoned rock quarries and also along SW-facing embankments of dirt roads or ponds. I especially target "rock on rock" areas or areas with a clay substrate. My searching technique seems to turn up a fair number of individuals going through shed cycles. It seems reasonable, therefore, to believe that these areas may represent micro-habitats for shedding, but may not be reflective of where this species spends most of its time. Habits and Life HistoryBeing a secretive snake, this species is seldom seen exposed. It can be uncovered from its hiding spots under rocks, tin, rotten logs, and other debris. It is probably Some field guides indicate that this species may be found crossing roads during or after rainfall. I don't completely doubt that this is true, but I have never found one searching this way. Mating in this species occurs in the spring, shortly after emergence from hibernation. The females lay eggs in the summer and their eggs hatch in early fall. Prey and Hunting TechniquesThis species eats a variety of prey: small mice, lizards, and other snakes. Being a Kingsnake (genus Lampropeltis), this species is well-known for its tendency to eat other snakes, including This species is an active forager. Prey is seized, constricted, and swallowed. I have offered skinks to some captive specimens. It is not uncommon for the snake to grab onto the tail of a skink and have the tail break off. The snake seems content to eat what it grabs before darting off after the rest of the prey item. I imagine Milksnakes end up with several "snacks" of skink tails in the wild. Temperament and DefenseThe temperament of this species varies greatly, but is generally gentle if handled carefully and given a chance to tame down. I have found captive specimens will tolerate handling only for a short time, but grow increasingly impatient. Occasionally, an individual will be relatively "wild" and never seems to be completely calm. The defense for this species is its secretive nature and bright coloration which alerts predators to the fact it may not be a good meal. Although this species shares only a small concurrent range in Arkansas with the One interesting behavior of this species is that it will often thrash (as though feigning strikes) when uncovered. It seems to time these thrashes to the immediate threat, such as a hand reaching down. Once in hand, it seems to abandon the thrashing but may bite, poop, and/or emit a foul-smelling musk. ConservationThe Red subspecies has no special protections in Arkansas. The Louisiana subspecies is monitored by the Arkansas Natural Heritage Commission as a rare species. When uncovered, this species is often mistaken for a Coralsnake and killed. Sadly, this even occurs in areas, such as northern Arkansas, that fall well outside of the Coralsnake range. State Distribution and Abundance
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