tadd_k's Favorites

I came across this unusual scene while hiking back to my car this afternoon. What I think is happening here is that the racer probably tried to predate the alligator lizard, only to have the alligator lizard clampdown on the snake's head. When I came upon them, the snake wasn't moving much. I sat and watched for a bit, but then noticed a mountain biker coming down the trail. When I stood up so he could see me, I must have startled the lizard, because all of a sudden the snake got free, and zipped off into the tall grass on the side of the trail. After a second or two, the alligator lizard also dashed off, albeit in the other direction. All in all, it was quite a surprising encounter.
(@gregpauly, I thought you might be interested in this one, since it showsthe jaw strength of a Northern Alligator lizard from a different angle than the one we know from mating lizards.

Heard some rumors that this Garter snake has disappeared or is extremely rare in this area, compared to years past.. I have seen
a number of theses snakes in different areas up in the past few years, with
VERY minimal effort.. (see other HERP records).

I will continue to work the area, when I visit some of my big bear clients..

At quick glance they seem to be doing well to me, but I will continue my efforts..

This one was found in the downtown area in a quick 10 minute search