Olympic National Park is home to a variety of reptiles, including snakes, but none of them are venomous. One of the snakes found in the park is the Northern rubber boa (Charina bottae), a species that is likely more common than records show due to its nocturnal and semi-fossorial nature, as well as its ability to adapt to different conditions.
The Northern Rubber Boa: A Unique Resident of Olympic National Park
The Northern rubber boa is a small snake, rarely exceeding two feet in length, with a thick body, small eyes, and tiny scales. Its loose and wrinkled skin gives it a rubbery appearance and feel. The top of the snake is uniformly tan, brown, olive, gray, charcoal, or rosy pink, while the underside is yellow or cream and may have dark mottling. Females are larger than males, and juveniles resemble adults but are pinkish in coloration.
Feeding Habits and Habitat Preferences
The Northern rubber boa is a constrictor, which means it wraps around its prey to crush and kill them. It eats small mammals, birds, salamanders, lizards, snakes, and possibly frogs. This species is found in a variety of habitats, including prairies, shrubsteppe, grasslands, and forests of various types. Its distribution is patchy in Washington, with some areas having high populations and others having none.
Distinguishing the Northern Rubber Boa from the Western Yellow-Bellied Racer
The Northern rubber boa is often confused with the western yellow-bellied racer (Coluber constrictor mormon). However, racers have large eyes, large dorsal scales, and a tail that tapers to the tip, while rubber boas have small eyes, small dorsal scales, and a blunt tail that is similar in appearance to the head. Racers are fast, aggressive snakes that will strike and bite if cornered or handled, whereas rubber boas are slow, non-aggressive snakes.
Observing Snakes in Olympic National Park
There are no specific costs, timings, or rates associated with viewing or observing snakes in Olympic National Park, as they can be found in various habitats throughout the park. However, visitors are encouraged to follow park regulations and avoid handling or disturbing any wildlife, including snakes.
Tips for Spotting Snakes in the Park
- Look for snakes during the warmer months, as they are more active during this time.
- Check under logs, rocks, and other hiding places, as snakes often seek shelter in these areas.
- Be cautious when hiking, as snakes may be present on the trails.
- Avoid approaching or handling any snakes, as they can be unpredictable and may bite if threatened.
Conclusion
In summary, Olympic National Park is home to a variety of snakes, including the Northern rubber boa, a small, non-venomous species that is a constrictor. Visitors can observe these snakes in their natural habitats throughout the park, but should follow park regulations and avoid handling or disturbing any wildlife.
References:
– Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. (n.d.). Northern rubber boa | Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife. Retrieved from https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/species/charina-bottae
– U.S. Geological Survey. (n.d.). Ecology of Olympic National Park | U.S. Geological Survey. Retrieved from https://www.usgs.gov/geology-and-ecology-of-national-parks/ecology-olympic-national-park
– National Park Service. (2016, January 18). Amphibians and Reptiles – Olympic National Park (U.S. National Park Service). Retrieved from https://www.nps.gov/olym/learn/nature/amphibians-and-reptiles.htm