Narrow-headed Garter Snake

Eutaenia sirtalis, variety leptocephala, (B. & G.)

Colouration: Brown or olive, with three distinct, yellow stripes of much the same width and appearance as the typical form. Between the stripes are two rows of spots, differing in their character from the pattern of other forms, in not being in contact with each other. The abdomen is dark olive or blackish.
Dimensions: The measurements of a mature female specimen are given:
Distribution: The Pacific region, from central California northward to British Columbia.

In pattern and colours this variety appeals strongly to the typical form. Its structural characters are fairly distinctive and may be summarised as follows: The frequent possession of 17 oblique rows of scales in place of the usual 19 rows, of forms of this species; the small, narrow head, but little distinct from the neck; the smaller size of the reptile as compared with others of the sirtalis group.

Total Length . . . . .161/2 inches.

Length of Tail . . . . .37/8 inches.

Greatest Diameter . . . . .3/8 inches.

Width of Head . . . . .5/16 inches.

Length of Head . . . . .5/8 inches.