Geographic range: Neotropical: Found from south USA, Mexico, Central America to South America (Colombia). In Mexico on both coasts, on Atlantic side from S Texas, on Pacific side from Sonora, south. Also on Yucatan peninsula.

Physical characteristics: Medium -sized, quite slender snake. Scales on upper surface weakly keeled, dark brown to almost black, with yellow or orange center, usually bordered by green or turquoise color anteriorly. Underbody is lighter color, cream or yellow. Most scales on head outlined black.

Food habits: Frogs, toads, lizards, reptile eggs, small mammals.

Reproduction: Oviparous. Reproduces during the rainy season (summer). Clutch size 4 - 7 eggs.

Behavior: Diurnal, active species. Non -venomous, but will bite if provoked. Saliva possibly carries a non -coagulant agent - bites bleed.

Habitat: Variety of both forested and open habitats. Often close to water.