The California Lyresnake (Trimorphodon lyrophanes), or Culebra lira de Baja California in Spanish, is well-adapted for living in its habitat thanks to its unique camouflage. The irregular blotches and brown coloration on its body allow it to blend into the rocky desert habitat. The camouflage keeps it safe from predators while allowing it to hide and sneak up on unsuspecting prey like geckos and granite night lizards, but it will eat other available food sources as well.

This non-venomous snake is harmless to people and is found throughout the region, from Riverside County to Cabo San Lucas in Baja California Sur, Mexico.

To learn more about the California Lyresnake, visit the San Diego Natural History Museum’s Amphibian and Reptile Atlas of Peninsular California.

PHOTO CREDIT: Bradford D. Hollingsworth, SDNHM