Species profile
California Lyresnake
Trimorphodon lyrophanes
ReptilesIUCN: Least Concern658 iNat observations
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
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
Photo credit: iNaturalist / Wikipedia. Identification reference only — verify regulations with the issuing wildlife agency before retaining a catch.