Banded Hognose Snake

This tricolor hognose snake is distinguishable by its namesake upturned rostral scale and striking banded pattern of white stripes bordered with black on a red base. It uses mimicry for defense, as it displays the same colors and patterns as some venomous coral snakes. When threatened, it may use a defensive display involving bluff strikes, neck flattening, and spastic movements similar to coral snakes. While Xenodon pulcher possesses a relatively stocky body shape similar to snakes of the genus Heterodon, X. pulcher is usually somewhat smaller and slimmer. Females grow to a total length (tail included) of 24 in (61 cm), while males stay smaller at 18–20 in (46–51 cm). Both sexes have a lifespan of 7–8 years, considerably shorter than most hognose snakes.

Xenodon pulcher is primarily found in the Chaco bioregion, extending through Bolivia, Paraguay, and northern Argentina. Its range may extend into Chile and parts of southwestern Brazil. This region is a dry, sandy environment on the eastern foothills of the Andes, characterized by dry scrubland, grasslands, and savannas. It is typically found near streams, as its diet consists mainly of amphibians (similar to the diet of other hognose snakes).