Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum)

Description: One of the longest snakes in the Southeast, capable of exceeding 244 cm (8 ft). Slender-bodied, with coloration that typically fades from black at the head to tan or nearly white at the tail. In southern Georgia and Florida, individuals may be almost entirely tan. The scale pattern on the tail resembles a braided whip, giving the species its common name. Juveniles are uniformly tan with irregular dark crossbands and white markings on the head and neck. Coachwhips have large eyes and keen vision, adapted for their active hunting style.

Range and Habitat: Occurs across the southern United States from southeastern North Carolina to central California. In Georgia and South Carolina, they are found throughout the Coastal Plain and patchily in the Piedmont, absent from the mountainous regions. Particularly abundant in sandhills, scrub habitats, and coastal areas, including barrier islands. Favor open habitats with sandy soils such as pine forests, coastal dunes, old fields, and prairies, but may also occupy disturbed sites like agricultural fields and powerline corridors.

Habits: Diurnal and most active in hot weather, often observed during the peak of summer when many other snakes are inactive. Seek shelter at night or in cooler weather in burrows, under debris, or in brush. Visual hunters that actively pursue prey with their head held above the ground. Diet includes insects, amphibians, lizards (especially skinks and racerunners), snakes, birds, and rodents, which are swallowed alive rather than constricted. Noted for their speed and agility, coachwhips typically flee rapidly when approached but will bite readily if captured. Capable climbers, often retreating into shrubs or trees. Breeding occurs in spring; females lay up to 24 eggs in early summer, with hatching in late summer or fall.

Conservation Status: Generally uncommon but widespread in suitable habitats. Not protected in South Carolina but legally protected in Georgia. Populations may be vulnerable to habitat fragmentation and human persecution, fueled by persistent myths that they “chase” or “whip” people, both of which are false.