Northern Scarlet Snake
Cemophora coccinea copei

Common Name:	Northern Scarlet Snake
Scientific Name:	Cemophora coccinea copei
Etymology:
Genus:	Cemophora is derived from the Greek words kemos meaning "muzzle" and phoreus meaning "bearer".
Species:	coccinea is derived from the Latin word coccineus which means "scarlet" or "crimson".
Subspecies:	copei is a patronym honoring Edward Drinker Cope.
Vernacular Names:	False coral snake, milk snake
Average Length:	14 - 20 in. (36 - 51 cm)
Virginia Record Length:	25.6 in. (65.1 cm)
Record length:	32.6 in. (82.8 cm)

 

Virginia Wildlife Action Plan Rating Tier IV - Moderate Conservation Need - The species may be rare in parts of its range, particularly on the periphery. Populations of these species have demonstrated a significant declining trend or one is suspected which, if continued, is likely to qualify this species for a higher tier in the foreseeable future. Long-term planning is necessary to stabilize or increase populations.

 

Virginia Fish and Wildlife Information Service: Species Booklet

Photos:

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