Hypsiglena cf. chlorophaea "Cochise" undescribed species
Huachuca Mountains, Cochise County, ArizonaAugust 10, 2022
undescribed species (Hypsiglena cf. chlorophaea "Cochise")
The night snakes in this portion of Cochise county have been shown by DNA analysis to be a distinct clade that is being treated as a separate, not-yet-described species. They are sometimes referred to as "Hooded Nightsnakes" since at least most of them have a thick dark neckband with a size and shape as seen here. However, nightsnakes are quite variable in pattern, and this type of "hood" is sometimes seen on individuals from other areas, so it's not a completely solid diagnostic character.
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