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Photo of a Striped Racer

Species profile

Striped Racer

Masticophis lateralis

ReptilesIUCN: Least Concern4.8K iNat observations

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.

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.

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.