Species profile
California Lyresnake
Trimorphodon lyrophanes
Identify California Lyresnake (Trimorphodon lyrophanes) from a photo: try it free in your browser, or get unlimited IDs, no sign-up, with the CatchRules app. Plus current fishing rules across 1 jurisdiction.
At a glance
California Lyresnake (Trimorphodon lyrophanes) is an IUCN Least Concern reptile with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
Confirmed by 526 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in California.
Notable details
- Named for the distinct lyre-shaped marking on the top of its head.
- A rear-fanged snake with mild venom effective on lizards but harmless to humans.
- Strictly nocturnal, hunting lizards and small rodents in rocky desert terrain.
- Adults typically measure 24–47 inches in total length.
- Has vertical, cat-like pupils — unusual among North American colubrids.
Where California Lyresnake are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for California Lyresnake
Background
Trimorphodon lyrophanes, the Baja California lyre snake, is a species of snake of the family Colubridae.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's California Lyresnake article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other reptiles on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is California Lyresnake?
California Lyresnake (Trimorphodon lyrophanes) is an IUCN Least Concern reptile with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
What is the scientific name for California Lyresnake?
California Lyresnake is Trimorphodon lyrophanes.
Is California Lyresnake regulated for fishing?
Yes — California Lyresnake has fishing regulations in 1 U.S. state and/or Canadian province tracked by CatchRules. See the "Jurisdictions with rules" section above for the binding-source links.
How can I identify California Lyresnake?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules app for iPhone or Android — on-device identification recognizes California Lyresnake along with ~1,500 other species. No sign-up, unlimited use.
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.