Species profile
Striped Racer
Masticophis lateralis
Identify Striped Racer (Masticophis lateralis) from a photo: try it free in your browser, or get unlimited IDs, no sign-up, with the CatchRules iPhone app. Plus current fishing rules across 1 jurisdiction.
At a glance
Striped Racer (Masticophis lateralis) is an IUCN Least Concern reptile with specific harvest rules tracked in 1 of 66 jurisdictions covered by CatchRules.
Confirmed by 4,442 research-grade iNaturalist observations, concentrated in California.
Notable details
- Endemic to California, found from Shasta County south into Baja California.
- Adults typically reach 3–4 feet, though occasional individuals approach 5 feet.
- Non-venomous; uses speed and agility rather than venom to catch lizards and small rodents.
- Thrives in chaparral, oak woodland, and rocky hillsides — often near streams.
Where Striped Racer are seen
Jurisdictions with rules for Striped Racer
Background
The California whipsnake (Masticophis lateralis), also known as the striped racer, is a colubrid snake found in habitats of the coast, desert, and foothills of California.
Background excerpt adapted from Wikipedia's Striped Racer article (CC BY-SA). Visit Wikipedia for the full entry.
Other reptiles on CatchRules
Frequently asked questions
What is Striped Racer?
Striped Racer (Masticophis lateralis) 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 Striped Racer?
Striped Racer is Masticophis lateralis.
Is Striped Racer regulated for fishing?
Yes — Striped Racer 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 Striped Racer?
Take a photo with the free CatchRules iPhone app — on-device identification recognizes Striped Racer 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.