10—
Reptiles

J. Robert Macey and Theodore J. Papenfuss

Introduction

The great majority of living reptiles are in the Order Squamata, which includes three major groups. The smallest is the Suborder Amphisbaenia. These are elongate, blind, burrowing reptiles. Most of the 200 or so species live in South America and Africa. All are limbless except for three species of the Genus Bipes in Mexico that have front legs. Only one amphisbaenian, the Florida Worm Lizard (Rhineura floridana ), occurs in the United States. The largest groups of squamate (scaly) reptiles are the snakes and lizards, with about 2,500 and 3,000 species, respectively. Snakes and lizards are the only reptiles present in the White-Inyo mountains region. By western North American standards, the White-Inyo mountains region, accommodating 37 known species, is relatively rich in reptiles.

Using the Chapter

Each species in the region is discussed in a species account, listed alphabetically by species name within each family, and illustrated with a color plate. All reptiles in the color plates are from the White-Inyo mountains region except the juvenile Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata ), which is from Kern County, California; the juvenile Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ), which is from Nye County, Nevada; and the Mojave Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis occipitalis ), Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ), Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake (Phyllorhynchus decurtatus ), and Lyre Snake (Trimorphodon biscutatus ), which are from San Bernardino County, California. A range map shows the distribution of each species in the area. The species account gives a brief description that should be used in conjunction with the color plate for positive identification. Sizes are given for adult specimens; naturally, juveniles and hatchlings will be much smaller. The size stated is total length, from head to tip of tail. In most lizards the actual body length is only one-third to one-half the total length. The remarks section provides information of general biological interest for each species. The range of the species is summarized for the region, and this summary should be used in conjunction with the range map for the species. One or more literature references are listed for each species; the complete citations are at the end of the chapter. Two references, Stebbins (1954) and Stebbins (1985), provide general information on western reptiles. All scientific names are after Collins (1990). Five references that discuss detailed studies on the reptiles of this region or nearby desert areas are: Banta (1962) (Saline Valley), Macey (1986) (White-Inyo region), Miller and Stebbins (1964) (Joshua Tree National Monument), Papenfuss

(1986) (White-Inyo region), and Tanner and Jorgensen (1963) (Nevada Test Site, Nye County).

Finally, a list of exact localities based on museum specimens is provided. These localities correspond to dots on each range map. When the locality is vague, it is not plotted on a map. In these lists the first reference to a place name is listed in whole, and other references to that place name follow it as separate localities. Refer to maps 9.1 and 9.2 for a guide to place names, valleys, and elevation. The majority of the specimens are housed at the Museum of Vertebrate Zoology, University of California at Berkeley. The acronym for this institution (MVZ) does not follow the locality unless one or more other institutions have specimens from the same locality. In order to assist biologists who may wish to examine specimens from the region, the localities for specimens in other institutions are followed by the museum acronyms. The institutions with specimens from the area include: American Museum of Natural History, New York (AMNH); Brigham Young University (BYU); California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco (CAS); Carnegie Museum of Natural History, Pittsburgh (CMNH); Field Museum of Natural History, Chicago (MNH); University of Kansas (KU); Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (LACM); Museum of Comparative Zoology, Harvard University (MCZ); Nevada State Museum (NSM); San Diego Natural History Museum (SDSNH); University of California at Santa Barbara (UCSB); University of Colorado Museum (UCM); University of Michigan Museum of Zoology (UMMZ); University of New Mexico (UNM); and the National Museum of Natural History (USNM). For accuracy, elevations and distances of localities from reference points are cited as recorded by the collector and have not been converted to or from the English or metric system.

Two additional sections are included. "Amphibian and Reptile Diversity in Selected Habitats" provides outlined information on how to find the species that occur in selected areas. This will aid in finding and observing amphibians and reptiles in the region. "Amphibian and Reptile Biogeography," which follows this introduction, presents a synthesis of the distributional data in this chapter and in Chapter 9, on amphibians. This section will help the observer understand why a particular species occurs in an area.

Observing Reptiles

Exact localities and habitats are listed in each account. Using this information along with the section "Amphibian and Reptile Diversity in Selected Habitats," at the end of the chapter, will facilitate the observation of reptiles.

Most of the lizard species are easy to observe. Except for the Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus ), all are diurnal, and many are common in preferred habitats. Lizards are most easily seen when they are basking in the morning during the spring and early summer. In low-elevation desert areas, they are not active during the hot, dry midsummer. There is a second period of activity during September and October, followed by hibernation from November through March. At intermediate and high elevations, lizards come out of hibernation in May or June and are active throughout

the summer. Lizards tend to be wary, but by walking slowly and quietly, the observer can approach most species within a few feet.

Snakes are more difficult to find than lizards. Ten of the 19 species in the area are always active at night, and 5 more are nocturnal during hot weather. These species are best found by "night driving," a technique used by herpetologists that involves driving slowly at night along deserted paved roads and watching for snakes either lying on or crossing the road. This method works best on warm nights when the moon is not full. Snakes tend to be much less active during the full moon, perhaps because they are more easily seen by predators then. When snakes are on the road, they can be approached and even picked up with ease. Rattlesnakes, of course, should be avoided. Several of the little-traveled roads in the region are good for night driving. These include the Lone Pine-Death Valley road (Hwy. 136), the Big Pine-Eureka Valley road (Eureka Valley Road), the Big Pine-Westgard Pass road (Hwy. 168) below 6,000 ft (1,830 m), the road across Deep Springs Valley (Hwy. 168), the Fish Lake Valley roads (east-west Hwy. 168 and Hwy. 266, north-south Hwy. 266 and Hwy. 264), and the Benton-Lee Vining road (Hwy. 120). Highway 395 through the Owens Valley and Hwy. 6 through the Chalfant, Hammil, Benton, and Queen valleys have too much traffic, but short side roads in these valleys are alternatives.

Diurnal snakes are occasionally seen by hikers, but they are more commonly seen on the road in the morning and late afternoon. During the daytime snakes tend to be more alert and wary. Species such as the Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ), the Striped Whipsnake (M. taeniatus ), and the Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ) are surprisingly quick and will flee when approached. Aquatic species such as the Sierra Garter Snake (Thamnophis couchii ) and the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake (T. elegans ) are slow on land, but once in the water they can escape with ease.

Amphibian and Reptile Biogeography

The amphibians and reptiles that occur in the White-Inyo mountains region show several different distributional patterns. This is due in part to changes in desert vegetation in the area. The southern valleys, which are relatively low in elevation, have Creosote Bush (Larrea tridentata ) as the dominant plant. This is typical of the Mojave Desert as well as other southern deserts in North America. Panamint Valley, Saline Valley, Eureka Valley, and the western slopes of the Inyo Mountains in southern Owens Valley all have Creosote Bush Scrub. The higher, northern valleys, where Creosote Bush is absent, have other dominant plants, such as Shadscale (Atriplex confertifolia ). Fish Lake Valley, Deep Springs Valley, Owens Valley (except the southwestern part), Chalfant Valley, Hammil Valley, Benton Valley, and Queen Valley all feature this Great Basin Scrub desert. The change in desert foliation causes a south-to-north transition in species of amphibians and reptiles.

The amphibians and reptiles can be grouped into five distributional patterns (see Table 10.1). The southern group consists of species whose ranges are primarily south of the area in Creosote Bush Scrub; these species typically occur in the Mojave Desert. In the White-Inyo mountains region, two species appear to follow the distribution

of Creosote Bush closely: the Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis ) and the Western Blind Snake (Leptotyphlops humilis ). However, the Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus ), Common Chuckwalla (Sauromalus obesus ), Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis ), Southwestern Black-headed Snake (Tantilla hobartsmithi ), Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes ), and Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ), extend north of the Creosote Bush Scrub into Great Basin Scrub. The Red-spotted Toad (Bufo punctatus ), the only southern amphibian in the area, requires a moist habitat with permanent water. It is absent from the Eureka and southern Owens valleys. The Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans ) and Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes ) seem to be absent from the Saline and Eureka valleys. The Western Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis ) has not been found in the Eureka Valley. The Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata ), Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake (Phyllorhynchus decurtatus ), and Lyre Snake (Trimorphodon biscutatus ) have yet to be recorded from any valley except the Panamint.

The wide-ranging species have distributions in both the Mojave Desert and the Great Basin Desert. These species occur in every valley, with the exception of the Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ), which appears to be absent from Deep Springs Valley.

Species in the northern group generally avoid Creosote Bush Scrub. They have distributions to the north in the Great Basin Desert. Many of these species also occur to the west of the Sierra Nevada, and some are found isolated on high mountains in the Mojave Desert. The Northern Leopard Frog (Rana pipiens ) is restricted to the Owens River and its tributaries in the northern Owens Valley, and apparently along creeks draining the eastern White Mountains, since there is one record from 7,100 ft (2,160 m). The Western Toad (Bufo boreas ), Pacific Treefrog (Pseudacris regilla ), and Great Basin Spadefoot Toad (Spea intermontana ), which tend to be near water, each have one record in the range of Creosote Bush. The Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus ) is mainly distributed in mountain areas in the vicinity of water and avoids Creosote Bush Scrub in this area. The Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus ) mainly occurs in high mountain areas but it also occurs on the valley floors of the southern Owens, northern Owens, Chalfant, Hammil, Benton, Queen, and Fish Lake valleys. The Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ) occurs in or around all valleys, but at higher elevations around the Panamint Valley. The Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis ) is present only in the Queen and Fish Lake valleys, where it may be hybridizing with the Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). The Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ) is present in all northern valleys, as is the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans ). The latter is also in the southern Owens Valley.

The five endemic species occur only in the White-Inyo mountains region and directly adjacent areas. The Inyo Mountains Salamander (Batrachoseps campi ) occurs at 13 springs in the Inyo Mountains, and is in the Saline Valley and southern and northern portions of the Owens Valley. The Kern Plateau Salamander (Batrachoseps sp.) occurs along creeks draining the Sierra Nevada in the southern Owens Valley. The Owens Valley Web-toed Salamander (Hydromantes sp.) is present along creeks draining the Sierra Nevada in the southern and northern portions of the Owens Valley. The Black Toad (Bufo exsul ), a close relative of the Western Toad (Bufo boreas ), occurs

only in the Deep Springs Valley, where the Western Toad (Bufo boreas ) is absent. The Panamint Alligator Lizard (Elgaria panamintina ) is recorded from the Panamint and Saline valleys and throughout the eastern portion of the Owens valley. A site record for the west side of the White Mountains in the Hammil Valley also exists.

Species in the western group have distributions mainly to the west of the Sierra Nevada. The Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata ) is distributed along the east side of the Sierra Nevada at least from Olancha to Grant Lake, Mono County. The Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ) is present in springs at low elevations and in a variety of habitats at higher elevations. It occurs in many mountain ranges throughout the Mojave Desert and in all Creosote Bush Scrub valleys, but it appears to be absent from the western slopes of the Inyo Mountains in the southern Owens Valley. It also occurs on the western slopes of the White Mountains in the northern Owens Valley and in the southeastern slopes of the White Mountains in the Deep Springs and Fish Lake valleys. The Sierra Garter Snake (Thamnophis couchii ) is present in the southern Owens, northern Owens, and Chalfant valleys.

Figures 10.1 and 10.2 show the percentages of southern, wide-ranging, northern, endemic, and western species in each of the valleys. In general, as southern species decline in number, northern species increase. The valleys to the east of the White-Inyo Range show an abrupt transition between the northern fauna of the Great Basin Desert and the southern fauna of the Mojave Desert. In the Panamint, Saline, and Eureka valleys, which contain Creosote Bush, a few northern species occur. In contrast, the Fish Lake Valley to the north, in which no Creosote Bush is present, has 8 northern species. Additionally, the only southern species in the Fish Lake Valley is the Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). To the south in the Eureka Valley there are 6 southern species, in the Saline Valley 9, and in the Panamint Valley 14.

On the west side of the White-Inyo Range a more gradual transition between the two desert fauna exists. The southern Owens Valley has 7 northern species, although it contains Creosote Bush desert. The northern Owens Valley contains 8, and the Chalfant, Hammil, Benton and Queen valleys together have 9 northern species. In the latter grouping of valleys only 3 southern species — the Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis ), Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes ), and Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ) — occur, yet the northern Owens Valley, which lacks Creosote Bush, has 6 species. In the southern Owens Valley there are 10 southern species.

The Deep Springs Valley between the Inyo and White mountains contains Great Basin Scrub desert. The Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ) is the only southern species present in the valley. The wide ranging Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ) appears to be absent from this valley. In addition, only four northern species occur here, along with one western species and one endemic.

To illustrate the relationships among valleys, two trees are included. These trees were derived from two formulas, called faunal resemblance factors. The Braun-Blanquet faunal resemblance factor (BFRF) emphasizes the differences between the species compositions of different geographic regions (Braun-Blanquet, 1932). It is calculated by taking the number of species in common (C ) to two sites and dividing it by the total number present at the site with the larger number of species (N_L ).

[Full Size]

Figure 10.1
Amphibian and reptile distributional patterns on the two sides of the White-Inyo Range. Above are the valleys to the east
of the White-Inyo Range. Below are the valleys to the west of the White-Inyo Range. Note that the Chalfant Valley is
included with Hammil, Benton, and Queen valleys.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.2
Amphibian and reptile distributional patterns across the White-Inyo Range.

The resulting value is multiplied by 100 to take the form of a percentage.

BFRF = (C/N_L )100

Alternatively, the Simpson faunal resemblance factor (SFRF) emphasizes the similarities between the species compositions of different geographic regions (Simpson, 1960). It is calculated by taking the number of species in common (C ) to two sites and dividing it by the total number present at the site with the smaller number of species (N _S ).

SFRF = (C/N_S )100

The numbers that were derived are presented in Table 10.2. To show the relation between the valleys in the White-Inyo mountains region, two sites outside the area were included. In the Mojave Desert, the Granite Mountains south of Kelso, San

[Full Size]

Figure 10.3
The Baun-Blanquet faunal resemblance factor (BFRF) percent similarity tree, which
emphasizes differences.

Bernardino County, California, was used. In the Great Basin Desert, Pyramid Lake, Washoe County, Nevada, was used.

The trees are presented in Figs. 10.3 and 10.4. They illustrate the abrupt transition between the two desert fauna present on the east side of the White-Inyo Range. Both trees cluster the Panamint, Saline, and Eureka valleys with the Granite Mountains in the Mojave Desert. Both trees also cluster the Chalfant (including the Hammil, Benton, and Queen valleys), Deep Springs, and Fish Lake valleys with Pyramid Lake

[Full Size]

Figure 10.4
The Simpson faunal resemblance factor (SFRF) percent similarity tree, which
emphasizes similarities.

in the Great Basin Desert. The two trees differ on the positioning of the southern Owens and northern Owens valleys. The BFRF, emphasizing differences, places the southern and northern portions of the Owens Valley together in a subcluster of the Mojave desert cluster. The SFRF, emphasizing similarities, places the southern Owens Valley furthest out from the Great Basin Desert cluster and puts the northern Owens Valley with the Fish Lake Valley. This illustrates a more gradual and broad transition between the two fauna in the Owens Valley to the west of the White-Inyo Range. This is due to a wider range of habitats present in the Owens Valley. The Owens River and the creeks that drain the eastern Sierra Nevada provide riparian habitat and cooler conditions for northern species. The Creosote Bush Scrub in the southern Owens Valley and the gradual elevational increase from Owens Lake to the Queen Valley provide a corridor for southern species to range further north (Macey, 1986; Murphy, 1983).

Species Accounts

Alligator Lizards (Family Anguidae)

Southern Alligator Lizard,Elgaria multicarinata(Blainville, 1835). (Plates 10.1 and 10.2, Map 10.1) 8–16 in (20–40 cm); brown to gray dorsal background color; narrow light brown bands, about one scale wide, across top of back, turning darker on sides; white fleck at end of each scale in dark brown bands on side; distinct fold with granular scales between side and belly; up to two-thirds of total length may be tail. Habitat: In the White-Inyo mountains region this species seems to be restricted to the vicinity of permanent water. Southern Alligator Lizards are active during the day and early evening, but they are seldom seen because they are secretive and spend much of their time in leaf litter. Remarks: The subspecies of Southern Alligator Lizard occurring in this area is the San Diego Alligator Lizard (E. m. webbii ), which is known from a single locality in the Alabama Hills near Lone Pine (see Map 10.1). It is a wide-ranging species in California west of the Sierra Nevada that enters the area from the south and extends north along the east side of the Sierra Nevada. The five localities (four outside of our area) in Inyo County are all west of the Owens River. The only species that could be confused with this lizard is the Panamint Alligator Lizard (E. panamintina ), which has body bands three to four scales wide rather than one scale wide. Although the two species have not yet been found together, it is possible that they coexist in the Owens Valley. Range: Owens Valley west of the Owens River and canyons draining the east slope of the Sierra Nevada at least between Olancha, Inyo County, and Grant Lake, Mono County. References: Fitch (1935), Fitch (1938), Good (1988a), Good (1988b), Stebbins (1985).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 1,730 m, Division Creek, 13 mi NNW Independence (W of area); 6,000 ft, 5 mi W and 1.25 mi S Independence (W of area); 4,400 ft, 2.75 mi NW Lone Pine, Alabama Hills; 5,700 ft, south fork of Oak Creek, 5.0 mi W Independence (W of area); 5,200 ft, Walker Creek, 4 mi SW Olancha (S of area).

[Full Size]

Map 10.1

[Full Size]

Map 10.2

Panamint Alligator Lizard,Elgaria panamintina(Stebbins, 1958). (Plates 10.3 and 10.4, Map 10.2) 7–14 in (17.5–35 cm); gray dorsal background with light to dark-brown bands three to four scales wide, circling the top and sides; white flecks on sides behind each band; ventral coloration cream with gray flecks; banded tail longer than body. Habitat: This lizard is most common in rocky canyons in the vicinity of springs and streams. Panamint Alligator Lizards are not commonly encountered because they spend much of their time in rock piles or brush. They can sometimes be seen during the late afternoon and early evening basking in the open. Remarks: This species was first discovered in 1954 in Surprise Canyon, Panamint Mountains. It has since been found in the Argus, Nelson, Inyo, and southern White mountains. Panamint Alligator Lizards at French Spring in the Inyo Mountains occur less than

10 mi (16 km) east of the Alabama Hills, where Southern Alligator Lizards (E. multicarinata ) live (see Maps 10.1 and 10.2). Although it is geographically close to the Southern Alligator Lizard, its nearest relative is the Madrean Alligator Lizard (E. kingii ), which occurs 300 mi (480 km) to the southeast, in Arizona. At one time a single species of alligator lizard ranged from Arizona to the White-Inyo mountains region. The formation of the Great Basin Desert and the drying of the Mojave Desert separated this population, leaving the Panamint Alligator Lizard isolated. Since its discovery, fewer than 30 specimens have been deposited in the collections of major museums. This species is now protected by state law and should not be collected. Range: Panamint, eastern Argus, Nelson, Inyo, and western White mountains below 7,500 ft (2,290 m); site record for the western slopes of the White Mountains above Hammil Valley; may occur more widely (see ? on Map 10.2). References: Banta (1962), Good (1988a), Good (1988b), Stebbins (1958).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 1 mi E Batchelder Spring, Westgard Pass (LACM); 1.5 mi NE; 9.8 mi NE Big Pine; 6,650 ft, 10.1 mi NE; Daisy Canyon, Saline Valley (CAS); 6,000 ft, French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 4,850 ft (CAS, LACM), 5,000 ft (CAS), 5,030 ft (CAS), 5,100 ft (CAS), Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Mtns.; 6,800 ft, Marble Canyon, White Mtns.; Silver Creek Canyon, White Mtns.

Geckos (Family Gekkonidae)

Western Banded Gecko,Coleonyx variegatus(Baird, 1858). (Plate 10.5, Map 10.3) 3–6 in (7.5–15 cm); pale yellow or cream background with brown bands on body and tail; in large individuals body bands may separate into blotches; regenerated tails short, fat, and unbanded; eyes large and catlike with vertical pupils. Habitat: This species is most abundant in rocky areas where Creosote Bush is present, but it has also been found in Great Basin Desert Scrub below 6,000 ft (1,830 m). These geckos are active only at night. During the day they take shelter under rocks, in cracks, or in rodent burrows. Remarks: The subspecies of the Western Banded Gecko in this area is the Desert Banded Gecko (C. v. variegatus ). Geckos from the Owens Valley have a more distinct banded pattern than those found in the other valleys, which tend to have more broken bands and speckling. This is the only member of the gecko family in our area. Geckos are primarily a tropical group. Over 800 species are known worldwide, only 5 of which are native to the southwestern United States. The northernmost known locality for this species is in the Eureka Valley. They can commonly be seen at night on roads that go through rocky areas. They are especially abundant during the late spring and early summer on the Eureka Valley Road. Banded Geckos readily lose their tails as a defense mechanism against predators, and many adults have regenerated tails. Range: Throughout the Panamint, Saline, and Eureka valleys and extending into the mountains surrounding those valleys; Owens Valley to at least Big Pine and Westgard Pass; a site record for east of Bishop (see ? on Map 10.3). References: Congdon, Vitt, and King (1974); Klauber (1945).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Big Pine; 4,500 ft, 4.7 mi NE; 4,850 ft, 5.5 mi NE; 6.0 mi NE; 7.0 mi NE; Darwin Falls; 0.4 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley

[Full Size]

Map 10.3

[Full Size]

Map 10.4

Rd.; 5,750 ft, 22.3 mi SE; 5,600 ft, 22.6 mi SE; 24.0 mi SE; 24.4 mi SE; 24.5 mi SE; 24.6 mi SE; 24.8 mi SE; 24.9 mi SE; 25.2 mi SE; 25.5 mi SE; 25.9 mi SE; 26.0 mi SE; 26.3 mi SE; 26.7 mi SE; 27.5 mi SE; 27.7 mi SE; 27.8 mi SE; 28.2 mi SE; 37.3 mi SE; 40.3 mi SE; 2,300–4,030 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 8.9 mi SE of Hwy. 136 on Hwy. 190; 7.5 mi W Panamint Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190 (CAS); 37.2 mi W; 1,060–1,200 ft along Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS).

Iguanids (Family Iguanidae)

Zebra-tailed Lizard,Callisaurus draconoides(Blainville, 1835). (Plates 10.6 and 10.7, Map 10.4) 5–9 in (12.5–22.5 cm); dorsal pattern gray, mottled with white

flecks; faint black blotches down middle of back, forming bands on tail; ventral surface white with paired black bars on each side; in males the bars are surrounded by blue; underside of tail black- and white-banded. Habitat: Zebra-tailed Lizards are most common in valley floors and along sandy washes below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). This diurnal lizard has a high tolerance to heat and may be active in the middle of the day, even during the hot summer. Remarks: The subspecies of Zebra-tailed Lizard in the area is the Common Zebra-tailed Lizard (C. d. draconoides ). This species, which ranges to the tip of Baja California and Sinoloa, Mexico, is common throughout much of the western deserts. The dorsal pattern provides good camouflage for these animals. They commonly are not seen until they run. This is an extremely fast and wary lizard that has been clocked at nearly 20 miles (30 km) per hour for short distances. Just before they run, they usually curl and wag their banded tail over their back. Range: On the west side of the White-Inyo Range, in the entire length of the Owens Valley, and the Chalfant, Hammil, Benton, and Queen valleys; on the east side of the White-Inyo Range, in the Panamint, Saline, Eureka, and Fish Lake valleys below 6,000 ft (1,830 m). Appears to be absent from the Deep Springs Valley. References: Kay, Miller, and Miller (1970); Pianka and Parker (1972).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Aeolian Sand Dunes, Saline Valley (CAS); 5.5 mi N Bishop (UCSB); 4,600 ft, 12.5 mi N, 0.5 mi W (LACM); Darwin Falls (CAS, LACM, SDSNH); Darwin Wash; 1,900 ft, Daisy Canyon, Saline Valley (CAS); 27.7 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 29.1 mi SE; jct. Eureka Valley Rd. and North Eureka Valley Rd.; 3.9 mi N of Eureka Valley Rd. on North Eureka Valley Rd.; E side of Eureka Valley sand dunes; 2,280–3,225 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (SDSNH); Keeler; 1 mi S (LACM); between Lone Pine and Independence (CAS); Lone Pine (MVZ, USNM); 2.3 mi W (LACM); 2.9 mi W (LACM); 1.5 mi S, 7 mi E (UCM); 10.0 mi SE; 23 mi E; 5.6 mi N of Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd.; 1,100 ft, center along dirt rd., Saline Valley (CAS); 1, 175–2,350 ft, N end along dirt rd. (CAS); Seven Springs, Saline Valley (CAS); 1,090 ft, Tramway, Saline Valley (CAS); 890–1,200 ft, Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS); Willow Creek, Saline Valley (MVZ, SDSNH). Mono Co.: Chalfant (SDSNH). Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: Fish Lake; Jct. Hwy. 264 and Hwy. 774; 7.9 mi SSW Silver Peak.

Great Basin Collard Lizard,Crotaphytus bicinctores(Smith & Tanner, 1972). (Plate 10.8, Map 10.5) 8–14 in (20–35 cm); tan background color with narrow, broken yellow bands and small gray spots on back; a distinct black collar around neck, which is split in the middle with a white and gray band; head appears very large in proportion to body; tail long, about twice body length. Habitat: Collard Lizards occur in rocky areas throughout the study area up to an elevation of at least 6,500 ft (1,980 m) at the lower extent of the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. They are commonly observed basking on boulders. Remarks: The diet of this species consists mainly of insects and other lizards. The collared lizards (Genus Crotaphytus ) and the leopard lizards (Genus Gambelia ) are closely related and have considerable dietary overlap. They avoid competing by living in different habitats (see Long-nosed Leopard Lizard,

[Full Size]

Map 10.5

[Full Size]

Map 10.6

G. wislizenii ). Until recently, only two species of collard lizards were recognized: the Reticulate Collard Lizard (C. reticulatus ), occurring in a limited area of southern Texas and northern Mexico, and a wide-ranging species occurring from Idaho to southern Baja California and from California to eastern Missouri. Recent studies suggest that the latter species be partitioned into three species: the Common Collard Lizard (C. collaris ), ranging from western Arizona to eastern Missouri; the Baja California Collard Lizard (C. insularis ), occurring from southern California to southern Baja California; and the Great Basin Collard Lizard, which lives from southern California and western Arizona to Idaho. Some workers consider C. bicinctores a subspecies of C. insularis . Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below about 6,500 ft (1,980 m). References: Axtell (1972); Montanucci (1983); Montanucci, Axtell, and Dessauer (1975); Sanborn and Loomis (1979); Smith and Tanner (1974).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Antelope Spring, Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 5 mi E Big Pine; 6,000 ft, 9 mi NE (AMNH); Darwin (CAS); Darwin Falls (CAS, LACM, MVZ); 6,200 ft, 4.0 mi NE Deep Springs (LACM); NW end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 3 mi SE Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd., (BYU); 4.5 mi SE; 19.8 mi SE; 24.1 mi SE; 25.2 mi SE; 9.1 mi N Eureka Valley Rd. on North Eureka Valley Rd.; French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 2,300–4,480 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 0.5 mi W Inyo National Forest on Hwy. 168; 8 mi SE Keeler (CAS, SDSNH); 4.0 mi E Laws; 4,200 ft, Long John Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; 4.5 mi NE Lone Pine; Lone Pine Creek, ridge S of Wilson Ranch; Mazourka Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (SDSNH); 7.5 mi W Panamint Springs (CAS); Pearly Gates, 7 mi S Saline Valley; S end Saline Valley (CAS, BYU); W end Saline Valley (CAS); 5.6 mi N of Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd.; 7 mi N; 1 mi W Salt Lake, Saline Valley (LACM); 4,600 ft, 7,000 ft, Silver Creek Canyon, White Mtns.; Waucoba Wash area, 33.3 mi from Big Pine, W end Saline Valley (CAS). Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: Indian Canyon, White Mtns.

Desert Iguana,Dipsosaurus dorsalis (Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.9, Map 10.6) 12–16 in (30–40 cm); dorsal coloration light brown to gray with darker reddish brown mottling; mottling forms bands on tail; sides and belly cream with some reddish flecks on sides; dorsal pattern fades during heat of day, giving this species a bleached appearance; row of enlarged scales runs down middle of back. Habitat: Desert Iguanas almost always occur near Creosote Bush. Although this species is a habitat generalist, it prefers flat, sandy washes below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). These lizards are active on warm days and can be seen basking when it is too hot for other lizards. Remarks: The diet of Desert Iguanas consists mainly of plants. The flowers and leaves of the Creosote Bush provide a major source of food. These lizards are active at very high temperatures and have been recorded with body temperatures as great as 115°F (64°C), which is higher than for any other species of lizard in the area. Desert Iguanas are widely distributed in the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. This species, along with the Chuckwalla (Sauromalus ), is related to the giant iguanas of Mexico and Central and South America, including the well-known Galapagos Marine Iguana. Desert Iguanas are very common in the Panamint and Saline valleys, where they may be observed basking on small rocks or under Creosote Bush along roads. They are not very wary and can be approached closely. Range: On the east side of the Inyo Mountains in the Panamint, Saline, and Eureka valleys; on the west side of the Inyo Mountains in the southern Owens Valley, north to at least the vicinity of Lone Pine (see ? on Map 10.6). References: Norris (1953), Pianka (1971).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Saline Valley (USNM); Darwin Falls; sand dunes, S end Eureka Valley; 8 mi SE Keeler (SDSNH); 2,280 ft, 3,150 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 10.0 mi SE Lone Pine; 4,100 ft, 3 mi E Owens Lake (USNM); Panamint Springs; N Saline Valley (CAS); 5 mi N Salt Works, Saline Valley; upper Warm Springs Valley, Saline Valley (LACM); Willow Creek, Saline Valley.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard,Gambelia wislizenii(Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.10, Map 10.7) 10–16 in (25–40 cm); narrow cream-colored bands across back, extending to the tail; areas between bands are brown with cream rings, making back appear spotted; tail very long, about twice body length; brown stripes on chin fading toward throat; belly uniform cream or with small gray spots. Habitat: In our area, leopard lizards occur in all habitats up to at least 7,500 ft (2,290 m) in the White Mountains. They are most common in flat, sandy Great Basin Scrub and Creosote Bush Scrub areas but also occur in rocky areas and well into the Pinyon-juniper zone. They are very numerous in the Eureka Valley, where they can be seen in the early morning basking on rocks along the side of the road. Remarks: The subspecies of Long-nosed Leopard Lizard occurring in the White-Inyo mountains region is the Large-spotted Leopard Lizard (G. w. wislizenii ). In addition to feeding on insects, this large, aggressive lizard feeds on other lizards, occasionally even members of its own species. They are sit-and-wait predators that perch on rocks or lie under bushes until a prey item wanders by. This is a species with a wide range that occurs from Idaho to southern Baja California and from California to Texas. The only other member of the genus is the Blunt-nosed Leopard Lizard (G. sila ), which occurs in the San Joaquin Valley of California. It is on the Federal Endangered Species List due to extensive habitat loss from agricultural development. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 7,500 ft (2,290 m). References: Parker and Pianka (1976), Tollestrup (1982).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Aberdeen (LACM); 5.6 mi N Bishop (UCSB); Darwin (USNM); 15 mi N; Darwin Falls, Argus Mtns. (CAS, MVZ); Deep Springs; 4 mi SW; NW end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 6.3 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; within 1.0 mi W of North Eureka Valley Rd. on Eureka Valley Rd.; 1.6 mi E; 10.4 mi N Eureka Valley Rd. on North Eureka Valley Rd.; Fish Lake Valley; French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 2,300–5,570 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Independence (MVZ, USNM); 0.5 mi W (AMNH); Keeler; 1 mi S (LACM); Lone Pine (LACM, MCZ, USNM); Lone Pine Creek; between Lone Pine and Independence (CAS); Mazourka Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; 14.6 mi NE Olancha (LACM); N Saline Valley (CAS); 1 mi W Salt Lake, Saline Valley (LACM); 1,190–1,300 ft, Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS). Mono Co.: Benton; 4,840 ft, Cinnamon Ranch, 10 mi SSE; 6.0 mi S Nevada state line on Hwy. 266. Nevada. Esmeralda Co.: 8 mi S Hwy. 6 on Hwy. 264; 7,000 ft, Chiatovich Creek, White Mtns.; 4,900 ft, Chiatovich Ranch, Fish Lake Valley; 4,800 ft, 7 mi E (E of area); Fish Lake; 7,400 ft, Indian Canyon, White Mtns.; 3.7 mi S of Leidy Creek Rd. on Hwy. 264, Fish Lake Valley (BYU); 6,000 ft, 9 mi W Lida Summit; jct. of rd. to Middle Creek and Hwy. 264, Fish Lake Valley; 8.4 mi SSW Silver Peak. Mineral Co.: 1.6 mi NE of California state line on Hwy. 6.

Desert Horned Lizard,Phrynosoma platyrhinos(Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.11, Map 10.8) 4–6 in (10–15 cm); dorsal background gray to light brown with broken black stripe running down back; ventral color white; flattened oval body; horns at back of head; tail short. Habitat: In this area Desert Horned Lizards are present in

[Full Size]

Map 10.7

[Full Size]

Map 10.8

all habitats up to about 7,000 ft (2,130 m) in the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. They are most common in valley floors and sandy washes. These lizards are often seen in the early morning and late afternoon basking on small rocks at the edge of roads. They are especially abundant in low-elevation Creosote Bush Scrub valleys. Remarks: The White-Inyo mountains region is an area of intergradation between the Southern Desert Horned Lizard (P. p. calidiarum ) and the Northern Desert Horned Lizard (P. p. platyrhinos ). The northern form has shorter horns than the southern form. Horned lizards, commonly called "horned toads," are one of the most specialized groups of lizards in North America. There are 14 species in the genus Phrynosoma , which occurs from southern Canada to northern Guatemala. They are all similar in body shape and feed in large part on ants. Horned lizards are easily approached and can be picked

up by hand because they rely on camouflage and their horns for protection. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 7,000 ft (2,130 m). References: Pianka and Parker (1975), Tanner and Krogh (1973).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 2,200 ft, 3,800 ft, 6,200–6,400 ft, near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Saline Valley (USNM); 20.8 mi NE Big Pine; 23.3 mi NE; 26.3 mi NE; Bog Mound Spring, Deep Springs Valley; 4,500 ft, Daisy Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); Darwin; Darwin Falls; Deep Springs (BYU, LACM); 5.0 mi W (UNM); 5.2 mi W (UNM); 7.5 mi S (UMMZ); 12 mi W (UNM); Deep Springs Lake (LACM); 2,800 ft, 2,930 ft S end Eureka Valley (LACM); 3.3 mi SE Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 27.7 mi SE; Jct. of North Eureka Valley Rd. and Eureka Valley Rd.; 1.3 mi S of Canyon Rd. on North Eureka Valley Rd.; Fish Lake Valley; 2,950–5,570 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Independence (MVZ, USNM); 4,000 ft, 0.5 mi W (AMNH); 2 mi NE; Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd., Inyo Mtns.; Keeler; Lone Pine (USNM); 2.0 mi ENE; 3 mi W; 6,000 ft, Mazourka Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; 1,200 ft, Mesquite Sand Dunes, Saline Valley (CAS); Oak Creek, Owens Valley (UMMZ); 5.6 mi N Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd.; Saline Valley 1 mi W Salt Lake (LACM); Santa Rosa Hills, 25 mi NE Olancha (LACM); E side Tinemaha Reservoir, Owens Valley; 1,090 ft, 2 mi ESE Tramway, Saline Valley (CAS); 860 ft, 990 ft, 1,000 ft, Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS), Mono Co.: Benton; 2 mi S; 5 mi N (SDSNH); 5,100 ft, Cinnamon Ranch, 10 mi SSE; 10 mi N Bishop (USNM); 10.5 mi N, 1 mi W (SDSNH); Arrowhead Knoll, 15 mi N (UCSB); 3.2 mi S Nevada state line on Hwy. 266; 4.6 mi S. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 1.5 mi N California state line on Hwy. 264, Fish Lake Valley (NSM); 2 mi W of Hwy. 264 along Chiatovich Creek; 5,500 ft, 7 mi W Chiatovich (E of area); 2.5 mi SE Dyer; 8.6 mi N; Fish Lake; 6.3 mi SSW Silver Peak; 6.5 mi SSW; 6.7 mi SSW; 6.8 mi SSW; 6.9 mi SSW; 7.2 mi SSW; 7.5 mi SSW; 7.7 mi SSW. Mineral Co.: 1.4 mi E Janes Ranch at Hwy. 6, Queen Valley.

Common Chuckwalla,Sauromalus obesus (Baird, 1858). (Plate 10.12, Map 10.9) 12–18 in (30–45 cm); heavy-bodied; dorsal coloration generally brown or black; small granular scales; tail uniform tan or banded with black; juvenile body coloration brown to green. Habitat: This lizard is restricted to rock outcrops, where it is commonly seen basking on large boulders during the day. It is most common in Creosote Bush Scrub below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). Remarks: The subspecies of Common Chuckwalla present in the area is the Western Chuckwalla (S. o. obesus ). This is the largest species of lizard in the region and, next to the Gila Monster (Heloderma suspectum ), the largest in the United States. The leaves and flowers of Creosote Bush are one of the primary foods of this mainly plant-eating lizard. Most of the range of this species overlaps with Creosote Bush. An exception is in the foothills of the Inyo Mountains between Independence and Big Pine, where Creosote Bush is absent. Chuckwallas live in cracks in boulders, where they readily take shelter when approached. Once in a crack, they inflate their lungs and tightly wedge themselves in, making it virtually impossible for a predator to extract them. This is a highly social species; a large, dominant male controls a harem of several females. It has been estimated that it takes

[Full Size]

Map 10.9

[Full Size]

Map 10.10

a male 10 or more years to reach this status. Range: In the Owens Valley, restricted to the Alabama Hills and the lower slopes of the Inyo Mountains from Big Pine south; rocky areas in the Panamint, Saline, and Eureka valleys. Reference: Berry (1974).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 3,800 ft, near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Saline Valley (USNM); 3,500–4,300 ft, Daisy Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); Darwin; Darwin Falls (CAS, LACM, MVZ); 25.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 29.2 mi SE; 2,250–4,630 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Mazourka Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; 2.5 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd., Owens Valley; 1.8 mi NW Panamint Springs, 4 mi NW (CAS); 6 mi NW (CAS); Pearly Gates, 7 mi S, Saline Valley; 4,500 ft, Soldier Pass Canyon, Eureka Valley; Waucoba Wash area, 37 mi from Big Pine, N Saline Valley (CAS).

Sagebrush Lizard,Sceloporus graciosus (Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.13, Map 10.10) 4–6 in (10–15 cm); dorsal coloration brown with turquois-blue stripe from top of head to base of tail; two white stripes on each side; throat and belly dark blue in males, pale blue in females; midventral region black, commonly divided by white in males, lacking black in females. Habitat: Sagebrush Lizards occur in a variety of habitats mostly below about 9,000 ft (2,740 m). They are most common in the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. This species is absent from desert areas and is usually not present below 5,000 ft (1,520 m), except in the Owens Valley. These lizards are commonly seen basking on small rocks or on the ground at the edges of bushes. Remarks: The subspecies of Sagebrush Lizard present in the area is the Northern Sagebrush Lizard (S. g. graciosus ). The Sagebrush Lizard is one of three species of the genus Sceloporus that occur in the White-Inyo mountains region. It can be distinguished from the Desert Spiny Lizard (S. magister ) by its striped dorsal pattern and small size, and from the Western Fence Lizard (S. occidentalis ) by the striped dorsal pattern rather than irregular black bands. All three species occur together in the Owens Valley and at the lower edge of the Pinyon-juniper zone. Sagebrush Lizards reach higher elevations than any other species of reptile in the region. Range: Owens Valley, White-Inyo Range, Nelson Range, Last Chance Range, Silver Peak Range. References: Stebbins (1944), Stebbins and Robinson (1946), Tinkle (1973).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 6,000 ft, 6 mi E [NE] Big Pine; 7.5 mi S (LACM); 13 mi NE; Bishop (LACM); Dead Horse Meadow, White Mtns. (LACM); Pass over Inyo Mtns. on Eureka Valley Rd.; 8,200 ft, Grandview Campground, White Mtns. (LACM); 5,480–5,977 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 4 mi N Lone Pine (LACM); 7.0 mi E; Sierra View Point, White Mtns. (LACM); between old and new Silver Creek Canyon (LACM); 7,500 ft, Waucoba Pass, Inyo Mtns.; Westgard Pass (LACM, MVZ); 6,500 ft, White Mtn. Rd. (AMNH); 8,000 ft sign, White Mtn. Rd. (LACM); 9,100 ft, White Mtn. Rd. (AMNH); Wyman Canyon, White Mtns. (LACM); 7,500 ft; Roberts Ranch, Wyman Canyon, White Mtns.; 1 mi E. Mono Co.: Benton (LACM, MVZ); 8,400 ft, Indian Creek, White Mtns. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: Chiatovich Creek, White Mtns.; 7,700 ft, 2 mi S Piper Peak, Silver Peak Range; Alberta Mine, Queen Canyon, White Mtns.; 2,430 m, Trail Canyon, White Mtns. Mineral Co.: Orchard Spring, Buffalo Canyon, White Mtns.

Desert Spiny Lizard,Sceloporus magister(Hallowell, 1854). (Plates 10.14 and 10.15, Map 10.11) 8–12 in (20–30 cm); body covered with large spiny scales; dorsal background gray to pale yellow with six or seven transverse crossbars, which are more pronounced in females; black neck collar; females with uniform cream ventral coloration; males have extensive blue and black ventral coloration with green and yellow flecks. Habitat: This species occurs in a variety of vegetation types, from low-elevation Creosote Bush Scrub up to the lower edge of the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. It is most common in wooded or rocky areas below 7,000 ft (2,130 m). This wary lizard can be observed basking on rocks and tree trunks. Remarks: The subspecies of Desert Spiny Lizard present in this area is the Barred Spiny Lizard (S. m. transversus ). Other subspecies range from northern Nevada to the tip of Baja California, Sinoloa,

[Full Size]

Map 10.11

[Full Size]

Map 10.12

and northeastern Mexico, and from the Coast Range of central California to western Texas. In our area Desert Spiny Lizards are very common at Joshua Flats in the Inyo Mountains on the road from Big Pine to Eureka Valley. The spiny leaves of the Joshua Tree provide protection from predators. This large, heavy-bodied lizard feeds mainly on insects but will also eat small lizards. Range: Entire White-Inyo mountains region below 7,000 ft (2,150 m). References: Parker and Pianka (1973), Phelan and Brattstrom (1955).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Batchelder Spring, 9.8 mi E Big Pine (CMNH, UNM); Big Pine (CAS, MVZ); 4 mi W (SDSNH); 6 mi E; 1,620 m, 21.3 mi NE; Deep Springs (CAS); NW end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 4,400 ft, NW end Eureka Valley; 2.0 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Fish Slough, 5 mi N Bishop

(UCSB); 3,430–4,850 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Independence; 0.5 mi W (UMMZ); 1.4 mi W; 21.5 mi N (LACM); Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Keeler (SDSNH); Keough's Hot Springs, 7 mi S Bishop (CAS, LACM); Lone Pine (CAS, USNM); 8.1 mi SE; Mazourka Canyon, 7.0 mi ENE Independence; 1.0 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; 5.6 mi N of Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd.; 1,380 m, Silver Canyon, 2.0 mi E Laws; 4,500 ft, Soldier Pass Canyon, Eureka Valley. Mono Co.: 5,040 ft, Cinnamon Ranch, 10 mi SSE Benton; Fish Slough, 8 mi N Bishop (UMMZ). Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 1,570 m, along Chiatovich Creek, 1.5 mi W of Hwy. 264; 4.6 mi N Dyer; 8.2 mi N; Fish Lake (MVZ, UMMZ): 0.5 mi S; 1 mi S.

Western Fence Lizard,Sceloporus occidentalis(Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.16, Map 10.12) 5–9 in (12.5–22.5 cm); dorsal coloration gray to brown with irregular black bands across top of back; blue patch on each side of belly, outlined with black; throat blue, some are outlined with black. Habitat: This lizard occurs in a variety of habitats from below 4,000 ft (1,220 m) to 9,000 ft (2,740 m) but is absent from Creosote Bush Scrub areas. It is the most abundant lizard in the pinyon-juniper belt, where it is commonly seen basking on rocks or logs. Remarks: The subspecies of Western Fence Lizard present in the area is the Great Basin Fence Lizard (S. o. biseriatus ). The Western Fence Lizard, commonly called the "blue-belly lizard," is the most wide-ranging species of lizard in California, occurring in all habitats except alpine regions and Creosote Bush Scrub. There are two similar species in the area. The Desert Spiny Lizard (S. magister ) is larger and has distinct black patches on each side of the neck. The Sagebrush Lizard (S. graciosus ) has stripes running down the back. Over 60 species of Sceloporus , ranging from the United States to Panama, are known. It is the largest genus of lizards present exclusively in North America. Most of the species occur in Mexico, where as many as six are known to live together at a single place. Range: On the west side of the White-Inyo Range in the entire Owens, Chalfant, Hammil, Benton, and Queen valleys; White-Inyo Range, Nelson Range, Panamint Mountains (at higher elevations), Last Chance Range, Silver Peak Range, and Deep Springs and Fish Lake valleys. References: Fitch (1940a), Tanner and Hopkin (1972).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 2.6 mi W of Hwy. 395 on Hogback Rd., Alabama Hills (SBMNH); Antelope Spring, Deep Springs Valley (LACM); Batchelder Spring, 9.8 mi E Big Pine (CMNH, MVZ); 3 mi W Big Pine (LACM); 4 mi W (SDSNH); 6,000 ft, 9 mi NE (AMNH); 4 mi NW Black Rock Springs; Cedar Flat, White Mtns.; Cottonwood Creek, Mono County line, Fish Lake Valley (UMMZ); Deep Springs (CAS, MVZ, UMMZ); Deep Springs Lake (LACM); French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 4,000–5,977 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Keough Hot Springs, 7.0 mi S Bishop (SDSNH); Lone Pine (MCZ); 2.9 mi W (LACM); 3 mi W (LACM); 7.5 mi NE; 1.0 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; Payson Canyon, 2 mi W Deep Springs Valley; Pinyon Picnic Area, White Mtns.; Roberts Ranch, Wyman Canyon; 1 mi E; Sierra View Point, White Mtn. Rd. (LACM); 4,600 ft, Silver Creek Canyon; 2,060 m,

Silver Creek Canyon, 7.2 mi E Laws; 7,300 ft, E base Waucoba Mtn., Inyo Mtns.; 8,000 ft, White Mtn. Rd. (LACM, MVZ); Willow Springs Canyon, 8.0 mi ENE Independence; Wyman Canyon (LACM); 6,400 ft; 6,750 ft. Mono Co.: Benton; 1.25 mi N, 2.5 mi E; 5,400 ft, Cinnamon Ranch, 10 mi SSE Benton. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: Albert Mine, Queen Canyon; 1,680 m, Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley; 7,000 ft; 2,080 m, Dry Creek, White Mtns.; 7,400 ft, south fork Indian Creek, White Mtns. Mineral Co.: Orchard Spring, Buffalo Canyon, White Mtns.

Side-blotched Lizard,Uta stansburiana (Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.17, Map 10.13) 4–6 in (10–15 cm); variable dorsal pattern of spots, speckles, or bands; ventral color pale, distinct small dark blue to black patch on side behind each arm. Habitat: In this area, Side-blotched Lizards occur in all habitats up to at least 7,000 ft (2,130 m). This is the most common species of lizard in the region, but because of its small size, it is easily overlooked. Remarks: This wide-ranging species occurs in arid and semi-arid regions of the western United States and Mexico. Side-blotched Lizards occur over a broader geographic range than any other species of desert lizard in western North America. They occur from Washington to the tip of Baja California and northern Mexico, and from the coast of central California to Oklahoma. The number of individuals may exceed 20 per acre in some areas, and females may lay two to four clutches of eggs in a single season. Studies have shown that this species has a short life span and that there may be an almost complete turnover in the adult population from one year to the next. Side-blotched Lizards are a major source of food for lizard-eating predators because of their abundance. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 8,000 ft (2,440 m). References: Parker and Pianka (1975), Tinkle (1967).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Antelope Spring, Deep Springs Valley (LACM); Batchelder Spring, 9.8 mi NE Big Pine (CMNH, MVZ); near Bighorn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (USNM); 4 mi W Big Pine (SDSNH); 9.7 mi N (LACM); 16.6 mi S (UMMZ); 1,620 m, 21.3 mi NE; 5.4 mi S Bishop (UMMZ); 6 mi S (SDSNH); Cedar Flat, 11 mi NE Big Pine; 2,250–4,800 ft, Daisy Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); Darwin (CAS); 8 mi N (SDSNH); 15 mi N; Darwin Falls (LACM); Deep Springs (CAS, UMMZ); 7.5 mi S (UMMZ); 8.2 mi W (UMMZ); Deep Springs Lake (LACM); W end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 3.4 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Eureka Valley sand dunes; 2,800 ft, near (LACM); Fish Slough pond, 5.4 mi N Bishop (UMMZ); Fish Slough, 6.25 mi N Bishop (UCSB); 2,250–5,977 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 3,800 ft (LACM); Independence; 4,000 ft, 0.5 mi W (AMNH); 1.4 mi W; Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Keeler (MVZ, USNM); Keough's Hot Springs, 7 mi S Bishop (LACM); Laws; Lee Flat, 15 mi E Keeler; Lone Pine; 2.3 mi W (LACM); 4,000 ft, 3.0 mi W (LACM); 8.1 mi SE; 10.0 mi SE (MVZ, UMMZ); 4,200 ft, Long John Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; Mesquite Sand Dunes, Saline Valley (CAS); 1.0 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; 7.5 mi W Panamint Springs (CAS); 11.7 mi W (UMMZ); Payson Canyon, 2 mi W Deep Springs Valley; N end Saline Valley (CAS); 4,450 ft, Silver Creek Canyon, White Mtns.; 1,380 m, Silver Creek Canyon, 7.2 mi E.

[Full Size]

Map 10.13

[Full Size]

Map 10.14

Laws; 1,080–1,350 ft, Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS); Willow Creek, Saline Valley; Willow Springs Canyon, 8.0 mi ENE Independence; mouth, Wyman Canyon, White Mtns.; 6,750 ft. Mono Co.: Benton; Fish Slough, 8 mi N Bishop (UMMZ). Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: Fish Lake (MVZ, UMMZ); 0.75 mi SSW; 7,400 ft, Indian Creek, White Mtns.; 9.1 mi SSW Silver Peak. Mineral Co.: 7,000 ft, 0.7 mi W Montgomery Pass (CAS).

Skinks (Family Scincidae)

Gilbert Skink,Eumeces gilberti(Van Denburgh, 1896). (Plates 10.18 and 10.19, Map 10.14) 6–10 in (15–25 cm); dorsal coloration uniform brown in adults; juveniles with two white lateral stripes running from top of head to base of tail,

dividing brown dorsal coloration into three stripes; a middorsal brown stripe extending onto tail, and a brown stripe on each side stopping at hind legs, not extending onto base of tail; adults with brown tails; juveniles with pink tails. Habitat: In this area Gilbert Skinks are most common around springs and streams between 4,000 and 8,000 ft (1,220 and 2,440 m). They also occur in habitats away from water between 6,000 and 8,000 ft (1,830 and 2,440 m). This secretive lizard is rarely observed but can sometimes be seen in leaf litter or at the base of bushes during the midmorning or late afternoon. It is most easily found by turning rocks near springs or streams. Remarks: The subspecies of Gilbert Skink present in the area is the Western Red-tailed Skink (E. g. rubricaudatus ). A juvenile Gilbert Skink can be distinguished from the Western Skink (E. skiltonianus ) by differences in tail coloration. In the former, the tail color is predominantly pink, and in the latter, it is blue. One exception is that juvenile Gilbert Skinks in the Panamint Mountains have blue tails. In both subadult Gilbert Skinks and adult Western Skinks the tail coloration fades. They can still be distinguished by the length of the brown stripes on the sides, which extend onto the base of the tail in the Western Skink and stop at the hind legs in the Gilbert Skink (Fig. 10.5). (See Western Skink, E. skiltonianus , account for a discussion on distributional interactions between the two species.) Range: Mid-elevations of Argus Mountains, Nelson Range, Panamint Mountains, Inyo Mountains, and White Mountains

[Full Size]

Figure 10.5
Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ): Brown stripes on the sides of the body stop at hind
legs (above). Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus ): Brown stripes on the sides of
the body extend onto the base of the tail (below).

at least as far north as the Mono County line (see ? on Map 10.14). Reference: Rodgers and Fitch (1947).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Batchelder Spring, 9.8 mi NE Big Pine; 1,840 m, Cottonwood Canyon, 3.7 mi W of Hwy. 168 on rd., White Mtns.; Deep Springs Lake (LACM); NW end, Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 4,000–5,977 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 4,850 ft (BYU); Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 2,060 m, Silver Creek Canyon, 7.2 mi E Laws; sec. 18, T. 6 S., R. 36 E., Wyman Canyon, White Mtns. (CMNH).

Western Skink,Eumeces skiltonianus (Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plate 10.20, Map 10.15) 5–8 in (12.5–20 cm); dorsal coloration brown with two white lateral stripes running from top of head onto tail; two lateral brown stripes below white stripes extend beyond hind legs onto base of tail; tail blue, sometimes fading in adults, especially in individuals with regenerated tails. Habitat: In this area, the Western Skink is a high-elevation species that has not been found below 7,000 ft (2,130 m) and may occur as high as 10,000 ft (3,050 m). An exception to this are populations on the eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada that occur a little lower. It appears to inhabit only Pinyon-juniper Woodland. These lizards are rarely seen because they spend most of their time under rocks and logs and in leaf litter. Remarks: The subspecies of Western Skink that occurs in the area is the Great Basin Skink (E. s. utahensis ). See Gilbert Skink (E. gilberti ) account for distinguishing characteristics between these two species. The Western Skink and the Gilbert Skink are very closely related species. It is possible that they interbreed where their ranges contact in the White-Inyo mountains region, but not enough specimens have been obtained to come to any definitive conclusions. Only a single Western Skink is recorded from the White Mountains. A skink with a blue tail was seen at 6,300 ft (1,920 m) in Beveridge Canyon, Inyo Mountains (see small ? on Map 10.15). A young specimen from 6,100 ft (1,860 m) in Cottonwood Canyon on the east side of the White Mountains has a pink tail with a blue tip. An adult from the same area has typical Gilbert Skink coloration. Range: Sight record from Inyo Mountains (see small ? on Map 10.15); White Mountains above 7,000 ft (2,130 m); Silver Peak Range above 7,000 ft (2,130 m); expected in the mountains north of Queen Valley (see large ? on Map 10.15); eastern slope of the Sierra Nevada. References: Rodgers and Fitch (1947), Tanner (1957).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 8,000–8,200 ft, corner Secs. 17, 18, 19, 20, R. 35 E, T. 7 S, N of Westgard Pass, White Mtns. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 7,120 ft, Birch Creek, Spring, Palmetto Mtns. (E of area); 7,300 ft, Valcalda Spring, Silver Peak Range (NE of area).

Whiptails (Family Teiidae)

Western Whiptail,Cnemidophorus tigris (Baird & Girard, 1852). (Plates 10.21 and 10.22, Map 10.16) 8–14 in (20–35 cm); four middorsal pale yellow stripes, distinct on front part of body, less distinct on back part; reticulate pattern of black and gray between stripes, on sides of body, and on limbs; reticulate pattern on underside of body, with neck and chest nearly completely black in some individuals; tail very

[Full Size]

Map 10.15

[Full Size]

Map 10.16

long, usually more than twice body length; in juveniles pale yellow stripes continuous and tail blue (see Plate 10.22). Habitat: In this area, Western Whiptails occur in all terrestrial habitats up to about 7,500 ft (2,290 m) in the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. This species is most common in washes and sandy areas. They are active lizards and are commonly seen moving from bush to bush in search of food. These lizards feed on invertebrates, which are captured on the surface or dug our of the ground. Remarks: The subspecies of Western Whiptail present in the area is the Great Basin Whiptail (C. t. tigris ). Members of the genus Cnemidophorus range from Minnesota to Argentina and from California to Maryland. There are about 45 species, of which 15 are all-female. These species reproduce asexually, from eggs laid by the female and each offspring is a clone of the mother. These all female species have a larger-than-normal chromosome number (polyploidy) because of the original hybridization of two

different species and the incorporation of chromosomes from both parent species into the new asexual species. The Western Whiptail is not an all-female species, but it is an ancestral parent for some of the all-female species that occur in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 7,500 ft (2,290 m). References: Bezy and Sites (1987), Cole (1984), Parker (1972), Wright and Low (1968).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 3,800 ft, 6,600–6,800 ft, Near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); 1,620 m, 21.3 mi NE Big Pine; 5,000 ft, 24 mi NE; 2,400–4,850 ft, Daisy Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); 5,200 ft, 15 mi N Darwin; Darwin Falls (CAS, MVZ); NW end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 23.6 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 27.7 mi SE; 2,250–5,977 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Independence; 4,000 ft, 0.5 mi W (AMNH); 1.4 mi W; 2 mi N; 3,800 ft, 2.5 mi E; 6,000–6,100 ft, 2 mi W Jackass Spring, Nelson Range; Joshua Flats, 21.2 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 1 mi S Keeler (JACM); Laws; 4,200 ft, Long John Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; Lone Pine (FMNH, USNM); 4,300 ft, 2.3 mi W (LACM); 2.9 mi W (LACM); 4,700 ft, 3 mi W, 0.5 mi S; 4 mi W; 10.0 mi SE; 4,000 ft, Mazourka Canyon, Inyo Mtns.; 1 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; 1,200 ft, Mesquite Sand Dunes, Saline Valley (CAS); Panamint Springs (CAS, MVZ); 5.6 mi N of Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd.; near Freshwater Pond, W side, Saline Valley (CAS); NW end, Saline Valley (CAS); 5 mi N Salt Works; near Seven Springs, S of Lower Warm Spring, Saline Valley (CAS); 850–1,400 ft, Warm Springs Rd., Saline Valley (CAS); Willow Creek, Saline Valley; 6,750 ft, Wyman Creek, White Mtns. Mono Co.: Benton. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 0.25 mi W of Hwy. 264 along Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley; 5,000 ft, 0.75 mi W; 4,800 ft, 1.5 mi N Dyer; Fish Lake; 7,400 ft, Indian Creek, White Mtns.; 9.1 mi SSW Silver Peak; Mineral Co.: 3.9 mi NE California state line on Hwy. 6.

Night Lizards (Family Xantusiidae)

Desert Night Lizard,Xantusia vigilis (Baird, 1858). (Plate 10.23, Map 10.17) 2–4 in (5–10 cm); background coloration gray or brown with tiny black flecks that form indistinct stripes; belly uniform cream with scales arranged in transverse rows; eyelids absent. Habitat: This secretive, rarely seen lizard occurs in a variety of habitats up to at least 6,800 ft (2,070 m) in the White-Inyo mountains region. However, it has been found above 9,000 ft (2,750 m) in the Panamint Mountains of Death Valley National Monument. Specimens are most commonly found under the rubble of fallen Joshua Trees but have also been taken from under rocks, logs, and piles of brush. At Joshua Flats and Lee Flat in the Inyo Mountains, where no specimens have been seen, they appear not to live in Joshua Trees. Remarks: The subspecies of Desert Night Lizard present in the area is the Common Night Lizard (X. v. vigilis ). Although the common name implies that this species is nocturnal, they are in fact active during the day under cover objects. This is the smallest species of lizard in the area and is easily overlooked. There are very few records of Desert Night Lizards from north of the Panamint Valley, and the range of this species is certainly more extensive than is

[Full Size]

Map 10.17

[Full Size]

Map 10.18

presently known. The farthest north that Desert Night Lizards are known to occur in the west is the vicinity of Bishop. In the east, they are known from southeastern Utah. One record, for 6,800 ft (2,070 m) in Silver Creek Canyon, east of Laws in the White Mountains, is at the northern edge of the known range of this species. This high-elevation locality indicates that this species should be expected further north (see ? on Map 10.17). The Night Lizard family (Xantusiidae) consists of about 12 species, most of which are present in Mexico. A single species occurs in Cuba, and one species is present on three of the Channel Islands of California. Range: Valleys and mountains of the southern White-Inyo mountains region up to at least 6,800 ft (2,070 m). Presently known from the Panamint Valley, Argus Mountains, Saline Valley, Last Chance Range, Eureka Valley, Owens Valley north to the Mono County

line, and the west side of the White Mountains. Reference: Bezy and Sites (1987), Zweifel and Lowe (1966).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (USNM); 4,500 ft, 5 mi N, 2 mi W Bishop (W of area); BLM Ecology Center, 9 mi NW Bishop on Hwy. 395 (NW of area) (UNM); 4,500 ft, Daisy Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (CAS); 25.1 mi SW Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 4,200–4,400 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 1.4 mi W Independence; 5,800 ft, Last Chance Spring, Last Chance Range; 5 mi W Lone Pine (LACM); Montezuma Mine, 1 mi NE Tinemaha Reservoir; 1,380 m, Silver Creek Canyon, 2.0 mi E Laws; 2,060 m, Silver Creek Canyon, 7.2 mi E Laws.

Boas (Family Boidae)

Rosy Boa,Lichanura trivirgata(Cope, 1861). (Plate 10.24, Map 10.18) 24–36 in (60–90 cm); heavy-bodied with head small in proportion to body; background color gray with three broad, distinct reddish stripes running the length of the body; tail short and blunt. Habitat: In our area, Rosy Boas are restricted to Creosote Bush Scrub below about 5,000 ft (1,500 m). They occur in rocky hills and canyons and are very rare or absent on valley floors. This species is mainly nocturnal but is occasionally active in the early morning and late afternoon during the spring. Remarks: The subspecies of Rosy Boa present in the area is the Desert Rosy Boa (L. t. gracia ). Two other subspecies occur in coastal southern California and in Baja California and Sonora, Mexico. The Rosy Boa and the Rubber Boa (Charina bottae ) are the only members of the Boa Family in the United States. These two species are tiny in comparison with the giant pythons of Africa and Asia, the Anaconda of the Amazon Basin, and the Boa Constrictor, which occurs from Mexico into South America. The Rosy Boa, like other boas and pythons, kills its prey by constriction. This species feeds on rodents, birds, and occasionally lizards. Rosy Boas are gentle, slow-moving snakes. They usually remain motionless when approached and never attempt to bite when picked up. Range: Known only from the foothills of the Panamint Mountains and Argus Range surrounding the Panamint Valley. Suitable habitat exists in the Owens Valley in the foothills of the Inyo Mountains east of Owens Lake, and in the hills surrounding the Saline and Eureka valleys, but no specimens have been recorded (see ? on Map 10.18). References: Gorman (1965), Klauber (1931).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 0.2 mi E Darwin Wash Rd. on Hwy. 190; 10 mi W; 8.9 mi W Panamint Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190.

Colubrids (Family Colubridae)

Glossy Snake,Arizona elegans (Kennicott, 1859). (Plate 10.25, Map 10.19) 24–28 in (60–95 cm); cream to light gray background with narrow light brown blotches running down back; black flecks around edges of blotches; ventral surface uniform white; scales smooth. Habitat: This nocturnal snake usually occurs in valley floors and sandy washes. In the area, Glossy Snakes have been found only in

[Full Size]

Map 10.19

[Full Size]

Map 10.20

and around Creosote Bush Scrub. These active snakes are rarely seen because they do not lie on roads at night, like many other species, but move rapidly across them. Remarks: The subspecies of Glossy Snake present in the area is the Mojave Glossy Snake (A. e. candida ). Other subspecies occur throughout much of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Glossy Snakes resemble juvenile Gopher Snakes (Pituophis catenifer ) but are readily distinguished by their smooth scales and lighter background color and blotches. This species has a flattened head, enabling it to bury in sand or loose soil. Food consists of small rodents, lizards, and reptile eggs. Range: Panamint Valley; foothills of northern Argus and southern Inyo Mountains; southern Owens Valley in the vicinity of Owens Lake; expected in the Saline and Eureka valleys. Reference: Klauber (1946).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 8.1 mi SE of Hwy. 136 on Hwy. 190; 4 mi SE Lone Pine.

Western Shovel-nosed Snake,Chionactis occipitalis(Hallowell, 1854). (Plates 10.26 and 10.27, Map 10.20) 10–16 in (25–40 cm); a small, banded snake; background yellow with brown bands; faint reddish-brown band in middle of each yellow band (absent in snakes from southern Owens Valley); pale ventral color, with brown bands crossing belly in some individuals; snout flattened. Habitat: This species occurs in Creosote Bush Scrub below about 5,000 ft (1,500 m). These generally nocturnal snakes are most common in sandy areas. Remarks: There are two subspecies of Western Shovel-nosed Snake in our area. The Mojave Shovel-nosed Snake (C. o. occipitalis ) is present in the extreme southern Owens Valley around Owens Lake. This subspecies lacks the faint reddish-brown band in the middle of each yellow band. The Nevada Shovel-nosed Snake (C. o. talpina ), which occurs in the Panamint and Saline valleys, has the faint reddish-brown band (see Map 10.20). This snake uses its flattened snout to aid in burying itself in the ground. In areas of loose sand they can crawl beneath the surface of the sand for great distances. In Arizona, where Western Shovel-nosed Snakes occur together with venomous Arizona Coral Snakes (Micruroides euryxanthus ), the Shovel-nosed Snakes have a similar color pattern with red bands. The two species resemble each other, with the harmless Western Shovel-nosed Snake mimicking the venomous Arizona Coral Snake. Range: Vicinity of Owens Lake in the southern Owens Valley (C. o. occipitalis ); Panamint and Saline valleys (C. o. talpina ). References: Elvin (1963), Klauber (1951), Norris and Kavanau (1966).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Darwin Falls; 6.8 mi W of Darwin Rd. on Hwy. 190; 9.2 mi W; 2,340–3,750 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Owens Lake (dot on Map 10.20 is the position of an additional site record) (FMNH); 2.1 mi E Panamint Springs; 9.5 mi E of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190.

Night Snake,Hypsiglena torquata (Günther, 1860). (Plate 10.28, Map 10.21) 12–24 in (30–60 cm); a slender snake with a wide, flattened head; gray background coloration with numerous brown spots running the length of body; a series of paired dorsal spots may be fused or slightly offset, giving a checkered appearance; belly uniform cream; distinct dark brown neck band which extends along side of head to eye, commonly with a projection extending to middle of top of head. Habitat: Night Snakes occur in all habitats below about 7,000 ft (2,130 m). They are most common in rocky places in low- to moderate-elevation desert areas. This is a strictly nocturnal species that is sometimes seen crossing roads at night. They are fairly common on the Westgard Pass road (Hwy. 168) west of Tollhouse Spring and on the Eureka Valley Road between Joshua Flats and the Eureka Valley floor. Remarks: The subspecies of Night Snake present in the region is the Desert Night Snake (H. t. deserticola ). This wide-ranging species occurs from extreme southern British Columbia to southern Mexico and from coastal central California to Texas. These small snakes have enlarged, grooved teeth in the back of the upper jaw. These teeth are used in channeling venom into prey, which usually consists of small lizards. It is unlikely that this small species could envenomate a human, but care should be taken if these snakes

[Full Size]

Map 10.21

[Full Size]

Map 10.22

are handled. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 7,000 ft (2,130 m). Reference: Tanner (1944).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 4.7 mi NE Big Pine; 5 mi NE; 6.4 mi NE; pass over Inyo Mtns. on Eureka Valley Rd.; 11.3 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 1,920 m, 19.5 mi SE; 1,840 m, 19.9 mi SE; 24.1 mi SE; 24.9 mi SE; 26.3 mi SE; 27.4 mi SE; 3,630 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 3 mi W Lone Pine; 15.3 mi SE. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 5,200 ft, 2 mi W of Hwy. 264 along Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley.

Common Kingsnake,Lampropeltis getula (Linnaeus, 1766). (Plate 10.29, Map 10.22) 30–48 in (75–120 cm); black- and white-banded; black bands cross belly; black bands wider on top than on sides and belly. Habitat: Kingsnakes occur in

all habitats below about 7,500 ft (2,290 m). They are active both during the day and on warm nights. Remarks: The subspecies of Common Kingsnake present in the area is the California Kingsnake (L. g. californiae ). Common Kingsnakes are one of the widest-ranging snakes in the United States. They occur across North America from the Pacific coast to the Atlantic coast. There are a number of subspecies with varying color patterns. Kingsnakes eat a variety of vertebrate animals, including mammals, small birds, and reptiles. They are well known for eating other snakes, even rattlesnakes. They are generally not affected by the venom and will continue eating a rattlesnake even if bitten. It has been shown that rattlesnakes sense the odor of kingsnakes and attempt to avoid them. The only similar-looking species in the area is the Western Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei lecontei ). In the black- and white-banded color phase of this species, the black bands do not encircle the belly. In this region, Common Kingsnakes are relatively rare in Creosote Bush Scrub areas. They appear to be more common in Great Basin Scrub areas, especially in the vicinity of springs and streams. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 7,500 ft (2,290 m). Reference: Carpenter and Gillingham (1975).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Beveridge Canyon, Saline Valley (FMNH); Big Pine; 6,300 ft, 7 mi NE; 7.8 mi NE; 1,800 m, 8.2 mi NE; 9.0 mi NE; 22.0 mi NE; 2 mi E Bishop; 6,600–6,800 ft, Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Saline Valley (USNM); 0.3 mi E Darwin Wash Rd. on Hwy. 190; 27.7 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; Laws; Lone Pine; 5.9 mi S of Mono County line on Hwy. 6; 4.6 mi E Hwy. 6 on Silver Creek Canyon Rd.; White Mtns. Mono Co.: 1.0 mi W Benton; 18.9 mi N of Inyo County line on Hwy. 6. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 1,640 m, Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley; Fish Lake (LACM); 0.5 mi S.

Coachwhip,Masticophis flagellum(Shaw, 1802). (Plate 10.30, Map 10.23) 36–84 in (90–210 cm); a long, slender snake with large eyes; dorsal background red or reddish brown; indistinct narrow tan or cream crossbands on front half of body; between two and six distinct dark brown or black crossbands on neck; ventral surface pale with small black spots on chin and throat; juveniles are banded or blotched, usually less red than adults, with dark neck bands less distinct. Habitat: Coachwhips are diurnal snakes that occur in all habitats up to about 6,500 ft (1,980 m) in the lower Pinyon-juniper Woodland. They are relatively common in desert canyons where riparian vegetation is present. Remarks: The subspecies of Coachwhip present in the area is the Red Coachwhip (M. f. piceus ). The seven subspecies of this wide-ranging snake occur from coastal southern California across the southern half of the country to the Carolinas and Florida, and south in Mexico to the states of Veracruz, Sinoloa, and the tip of Baja California. Other subspecies are variable in color pattern and may not look like individuals from the White-Inyo mountains region. Coachwhips eat a variety of food, including lizards, snakes, birds, mammals, and even insects. This is the fastest-moving snake in the region. In the open, it will flee if approached and usually disappear into a clump of vegetation or down a rodent burrow. This evil-tempered species always tries to bite when picked up. Although it is not poisonous, the tiny,

[Full Size]

Map 10.23

[Full Size]

Map 10.24

razor-sharp teeth will draw blood. Range: Entire White-Inyo mountains region below about 6,500 ft (1,980 m). References: Ortenburger (1928), Wilson (1970).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 1.5 mi SW Batchelder Spring, Westgard Pass; near Big Horn Mine, Hunter Canyon, Inyo Mtns. (USNM); 5,500 ft, 6 mi E Big Pine; 19.9 mi NE; 31 mi S Bishop; Charcoal Kilns off Hwy. 395, N Independence (LACM); W end Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 5,000 ft, 4.9 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 7.3 mi SE; 26.9 mi SE; 9.8 mi E of Hwy. 136 on Hwy. 190; 2 mi N Independence; 4 mi N (SDSNH); Keeler (USNM); 9 mi SE (SDSNH); Keough Hot Springs, 7 mi S Bishop (SDSNH); Laws; Lee Flat, 3.3 mi S of summit on Saline Valley Rd. (CAS); 2 mi SE Lone Pine; 1,200 ft, Mesquite Sand Dunes, Saline Valley (CAS); 6,000 ft, Silver Creek Canyon, White Mtns. Mono Co.: Oasis (BYU, MVZ).

Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 1.7 mi E California state line on Hwy. 264 (LACM); 4.9 mi E; 1 mi W of Hwy. 264 on Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley; 2 mi S Chiatovich Creek on Hwy. 264, Fish Lake Valley; 4.8 mi S Dyer (LACM); Fish Lake; 1 mi SW. Mineral Co.: 8.1 mi N of Hwy. 6 on Hwy. 360.

Striped Whipsnake,Masticophis taeniatus(Hallowell, 1852). (Plate 10.31, Map 10.24) 30–60 in (75–150 cm); a slender snake with a narrow neck, wide head, and large eyes; dorsal background coloration brown, commonly with a bluish cast; white lateral stripe on each side divided in half by a narrow black line; two additional narrow black stripes on lower part of each side; midventral coloration yellow, becoming pale toward neck and pink toward tail; small black spots on chin and throat; black spot on the side of each ventral scale. Habitat: In this area, Striped Whipsnakes occur from mid-elevation Great Basin Scrub, above 5,000 ft (1,520 m), to at least 8,400 ft (2,560 m) in the Pinyon-juniper Woodland of the White Mountains. The species has been recorded at 9,400 ft (2,870 m) in the Panamint Mountains. This active, diurnal form is very alert and will flee when approached. Remarks: The subspecies of Striped Whipsnake present in the region is the Desert Striped Whipsnake (M. t. taeniatus ). The species ranges from eastern Washington south throughout the Great Basin and east into central Texas. It occurs in Mexico at least as far south as the state of Michoacán. A detailed study of Striped Whipsnakes was conducted between 1969 and 1973 in northern Utah, at a site where the snakes hibernate in communal dens. A total of 242 whipsnakes were marked and studied. It was found that young snakes ate only lizards, but adult snakes ate both lizards and small mammals. During the summer, individual snakes commonly moved 400–500 ft (122–152 m) in a day, and one snake traveled more than a mile (1.6 km) from the den. Range: Entire White-Inyo mountains region, between about 5,000 ft (1,520 m) and 9,000 ft (2,740 m) elevation. References: Bennion and Parker (1976), Ortenburger (1928), Parker and Brown (1980).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 6,620 ft, 9.8 mi NE Big Pine; Dead Horse Meadow, Crooked Creek, White Mtns. (LACM); 6,600 ft, 10 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd. (LACM); 6,750 ft, 10.7 mi SE (LACM); 5,400 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range [Willow Creek] (USNM); Inyo Lodge Camp, Inyo Mtns. (LACM); 1.2 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168, White Mtns.; 15.5 mi NE of Hwy. 190 on Saline Valley Rd., Nelson Range (LACM); 3.1 mi N of Hwy. 168 on White Mtn. Rd. (LACM); 8,400 ft, 6.0 mi N. Mono Co.: Benton; 5,200 ft, 2 mi S. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 12 mi E Oasis, Silver Peak Range (KU).

Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake,Phyllorhynchus decurtatus(Cope, 1868). (Plate 10.32, Map 10.25) 12–20 in (30–50 cm); light reddish brown to gray dorsal background coloration with brown blotches running down back; uniform white ventral coloration; black stripe through each eye; enlarged, leaf-shaped rostral scale at tip of nose. Habitat: In the White-Inyo mountains region Spotted Leaf-nosed Snakes occur in Creosote Bush Scrub below about 3,000 ft (910 m). They are most common in sandy or gravelly areas. This strictly nocturnal species is commonly seen crossing roads on warm nights in the late spring and early summer. Remarks: The subspecies

[Full Size]

Map 10.25

[Full Size]

Map 10.26

of Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake present in the region is the Western Leaf-nosed Snake (P. d. perkinsi ). Until 1922, only six specimens were known to science, and it was considered one of the rarest North American snakes. At about this time, biologists discovered that nocturnal snakes could easily be collected by driving on paved roads at night. It was soon learned that Spotted Leaf-nosed Snakes were one of the most abundant snakes in the southern California deserts. The diet of this species is very specialized. Occasionally small lizards are eaten, but the majority of food taken consists of the eggs of other reptiles. The enlarged scale on the snout of this snake aids in digging in the sand in search of eggs. Range: Recorded only from the Panamint Valley. Suitable habitat is present in the extreme southern Owens Valley, Saline Valley, and Eureka Valley, but no specimens are recorded. References: Brattstrom (1953), Klauber (1935).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Darwin Falls; 3.9 mi W of Darwin Rd. on Hwy. 190; 0.5 mi E Panamint Springs; 1 mi NW; 1.3 mi E; 1.5 mi E; 1.7 mi E; 4.7 mi E; 5.7 mi E; 2.6 mi W of Panamint Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190; 4.3 mi W.

Gopher Snake,Pituophis catenifer (Blainville, 1835). (Plate 10.33, Map 10.26) 30–60 in (75–150 cm); large, blotched snake with distinctly keeled scales; dorsal coloration gray to tan; large black to brown blotches running down back; blotches often fused in neck region. Habitat: Gopher Snakes occur in all habitats below about 8,000 ft (2,440 m). They are active during the day and on warm nights, and they are commonly seen resting on paved roads during the late afternoon and at night. Remarks: The subspecies of Gopher Snake present in the area is the Great Basin Gopher Snake (P. c. deserticola ). Other subspecies of this wide-ranging snake occur from the Pacific coast to the Great Plains and from Canada to Mexico. In the past, many of these subspecies were recognized as distinct species. Some of the forms in the United States look very different from each other, and future studies may determine that they are, in fact, distinct species. This large, heavy-bodied snake feeds primarily on rodents, which are first killed by construction. The Gopher Snake is occasionally mistaken for a rattlesnake because it sometimes coils its body and vibrates its tail, making a rattling sound in dry leaves. Young Gopher Snakes are similar in color pattern to Glossy Snakes (Arizona elegans ). The former has keeled scales, and the latter has smooth scales. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 8,000 ft (2,440 m). References: Klauber (1947), Parker and Brown (1980).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 4,000 ft, 1 mi E Big Pine; 5.1 mi NE; 6.0 mi NE; 8.2 mi NE; 8.6 mi NE; 10.3 mi NE; 11.9 mi NE; 15.4 mi NE; 21.9 mi NE; 22.8 mi NE; 24.5 mi NE; 27.2 mi NE; 3.5 mi ESE Bishop; Hwy. 190 between Darwin Wash Rd. and 4,000 ft Vista Lookout; 6.9 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 5,750 ft, 7.4 mi SE; 8.4 mi SE; 7,150 ft, 16.1 mi SE; 20.3 mi SE; 22.7 mi SE; 35.1 mi SE; 35.4 mi SE; French Spring, Inyo Mtns.; 5,750 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 13 mi N Independence (LACM); Jackass Spring, 20 mi N Darwin, Panamint Mtns. (USNM); Lone Pine (CAS, USNM); 4.6 mi N; 3.1 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; 6.8 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 6; Westgard Pass (BYU); 6,000 ft; Wyman Canyon, 2 mi W Deep Springs Valley, White Mtns. Mono Co.: Benton; 5 mi N (SDSNH, UMMZ); 6 mi S (SDSNH); N end Fish Slough, 19 mi N Bishop (UCSB); 4.4 mi N Inyo County line on Hwy. 6; 10.9 mi N; 11.9 mi N; Silver Canyon, 4.5 mi E Laws; 18.6 mi N; 3.2 mi SW Nevada state line on Hwy. 6; 4.8 mi SW; Nevada state line on Hwy. 266, N Oasis. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 1 mi W of Hwy. 264 along Chiatovich Creek, Fish Lake Valley; 1 mi S Chiatovich Creek on Hwy. 264, Fish Lake Valley; 0.3 mi N Dyer; Fish Lake; jct. Hwy. 6 and Hwy. 264; 11.3 mi E Mineral County line on Hwy. 6; 5.1 mi N California state line on Hwy. 264. Mineral Co.: 1.6 mi E Montgomery Pass on Hwy 6; 2.4 mi NE California state line on Hwy. 6; 4.6 mi NE.

Long-nosed Snake,Rhinocheilus lecontei (Baird & Girard, 1853). (Plate 10.34, Map 10.27) 20–40 in (50–100 cm); a speckled snake with distinct black saddles across back and sides; white flecks on the sides of each saddle; in most individuals the area

[Full Size]

Map 10.27

[Full Size]

Map 10.28

between the saddles is white with red and black speckles; in some specimens the area between the saddles is uniform white; belly pale, some with black blotches; snout pointed. Habitat: Long-nosed Snakes occur throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below about 6,000 ft (1,830 m). They are most common in sandy Creosote Bush Scrub and Great Basin Scrub areas. This species is almost exclusively nocturnal and is usually seen crossing roads at night during the spring and summer. It is a fast-moving snake that rarely rests on the pavement as Gopher Snakes (Pituophis catenifer ) and rattlesnakes (Crotalus ) do. Remarks: The subspecies of Long-nosed Snake in the area is the Western Long-nosed Snake (R. l. lecontei ). At one time the black and white color phase was recognized as a distinct subspecies (R. l. clarus ). Owing, in part, to reports of both color phases being hatched from a single clutch of eggs, this taxonomic

distinction has been dropped for the present. However, more research is needed on the clarus phase. In some areas, such as parts of the Coachella Valley in Riverside County, California, all Long-nosed Snakes lack red speckles. The clarus phase may be distinguished from the similarly colored Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ) by the pointed snout and the absence of black bands connecting across the belly. Long-nosed Snakes feed on lizards and lizard eggs, small snakes, small mammals, and occasionally birds. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 6,000 ft (1,830 m). References: Klauber (1941), Shannon and Humphrey (1963).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 0.6 mi E Aberdeen; 1.3 mi S; Bartlett (SDSNH); 12 mi N Big Pine (LACM); 20.1 mi NE on Hwy. 168; 30.7 mi NE; 10 mi S Bishop; 5.7 mi N of Eureka Valley Rd. on North Eureka Valley Rd.; 26.9 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 3,850 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Independence; 1.4 mi W; 2 mi SE Lone Pine (SDSNH); 16.6 mi SE; 38 mi E; 1.3 mi W of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190; 0.8 mi E.

Western Patch-nosed Snake,Salvadora hexalepis(Cope, 1866). (Plate 10.35, Map 10.28) 24–36 in (60–90 cm); gray to light brown dorsal coloration with two narrow, broken stripes running down back; ventral coloration uniform cream; enlarged scale on tip of snout (rostral scale). Habitat: This snake occurs throughout the entire White-Inyo mountains region up to about 6,500 ft (1,980 m). It is most common in sandy valley floors. This is a fast-moving diurnal species. Patch-nosed snakes are sometimes seen in the late afternoon basking on roads. Remarks: The subspecies of Western Patch-nosed Snake in the area is the Mojave Patch-nosed Snake (S. h. mojavensis ). This genus contains eight species that range from northern Nevada to Guatemala. They occur in arid and semi-arid regions. The Western Patch-nosed Snake ranges the farthest north of any species, occurring from northern Nevada into central western Mexico, and from coastal southern California to western Texas. This wary, alert snake will attempt to escape when approached. In this area, it is more common in Great Basin Scrub habitats than in Creosote Bush Scrub habitats. Patch-nosed Snakes feed mainly on lizards and reptile eggs. Range: Throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 6,500 ft (1,980 m). Reference: Bogert (1939).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Antelope Spring, Deep Springs Valley (LACM); 5,000 ft, 5 mi E Big Pine; 6,000 ft, 6 mi NE; 6,400 ft, 7 mi NE; 20.4 mi NE; 2 mi NE Deep Springs (LACM); 8.1 mi SW (LACM); 1 mi NE of Eureka Valley Rd. on Hwy. 168 (CMNH); 4,480 ft, 5,100 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 5.0 mi NE Independence; 11.0 mi N; Keough Hot Springs, 7 mi S Bishop (LACM); 2.8 mi W Lone Pine (LACM); 9 mi W Panamint Springs on Hwy. 190; 6,000 ft, 3.1 mi S of summit on Saline Valley Rd. (CAS). Mono Co.: 4.4 mi S of Hwy. 120 at Benton on Hwy. 6. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 10 mi E Basalt (UMMZ); 4.0 mi E California state line on Hwy. 266; 0.5 mi E Mineral County line on Hwy. 6.

Ground Snake,Sonora semiannulata(Baird & Girard, 1853). (Plate 10.36, Map 10.29) 10–16 in (25–40 cm); black- and orange-banded; width of bands about equal; bands not sharply defined and not continuous ventrally except on tail. Habitat: The few specimens recorded from the region have been found in mountainous areas in

[Full Size]

Map 10.29

[Full Size]

Map 10.30

both Creosote Bush Scrub and Great Basin Desert Scrub below 6,000 ft (1,830 m). Ground Snakes may occasionally be found under rocks near streams but are most commonly encountered on roads at dusk. Remarks: Ground Snakes range from Texas to California and from Idaho to the tip of Baja California and northeastern Mexico. They may be locally abundant but are seldom seen throughout most of their range. In some places striped or uniformly colored populations exist. In the past, some of these populations were regarded as separate species, but currently only a single species is recognized. Ground Snakes prey on spiders and other invertebrates. The only other snake in the region likely to be confused with this species is the Western Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis ), which has a flattened snout and yellow rather than orange bands. There is also usually a faint brown saddle in each yellow band, in

the latter species. Range: Presumed to occur throughout the White-Inyo mountains region below 6,500 ft (1,980 m). May be absent from valley floors. Reference: Frost (1983).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 7 mi NE Big Pine; 7.7 mi NE; 4,000–5,000 ft, Darwin Vicinity on Hwy. 190; E end Deep Springs Valley (SDSNH); 27.3 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 27.7 mi SE; 38.7 mi SE; 4,500 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 6.8 mi E of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190.

Southwestern Black-headed Snake,Tantilla hobartsmithi(Taylor, 1936). (Plate 10.37, Map 10.30) 8–14 in (20–35 cm); small, thin brown snake with a black head; ventral color red. Habitat: In the White-Inyo mountains region, Black-headed Snakes have been found in rocky, mountainous places below 6,500 ft (1,980 m). These snakes occur both in Creosote Bush Scrub and Great Basin Scrub and into the Pinyon-juniper Woodland. They are most common around springs and streams. This is a nocturnal species that can occasionally be found by turning rocks. Remarks: This secretive, small snake is seldom observed. There are only four museum specimens from the White-Inyo mountains region. The northernmost known record for the species is on the Westgard Pass road (see Map 10.30), but it is probable that they occur farther north in suitable habitat. Black-headed Snakes have a very specialized diet, feeding almost exclusively on centipedes. Although they are not considered dangerous to humans, this species has enlarged rear fangs and venom to aid in killing prey. Outside of our area, the range of the Southwestern Black-headed Snake extends southeast into Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, and northern Mexico. Range: Northern Argus Mountains, Nelson Range above the Saline Valley, western slopes of the Inyo Mountains; may occur further north (see ? on Map 10.30). Reference: Cole and Hardy (1981).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 5,550 ft, 7.2 mi NE Big Pine; 8.5 mi NE; 4,020–4,030 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); Hogback Creek, 6 mi S Olancha (S of area); 3.4 mi E of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190.

Sierra Garter Snake,Thamnophis couchii (Kennicott, 1859). (Plate 10.38, Map 10.31) 24–42 in (60–105 cm); dorsal background color olive-brown with black spots arranged in four rows running down the body; pale chin; ventral surface light to dark brown, commonly with black line at posterior margin of each ventral scale; long, narrow, triangular head with black neck collar. Habitat: This highly aquatic snake is restricted to the vicinity of marshes, streams, and rivers. It is a wary diurnal species that readily enters the water if disturbed while basking. Once in the water, these snakes usually hide under rocks at the bottoms of pools. Remarks: This was formerly regarded as one wide-ranging species with six subspecies in California and western Nevada. It has now been split up into four species. In the western Sierra Nevada this snake has a typical striped garter snake pattern, but in our area it is spotted with no stripes. The snakes from the Owens Valley have not been studied yet and may actually represent a fifth species in this group. A second species of garter snake, the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake (T. elegans ) is also found here. Where the two species coexist

[Full Size]

Map 10.31

[Full Size]

Map 10.32

in the Owens Valley, the Western Terrestrial Garter Snake has a middorsal stripe (see following account). Sierra Garter Snakes feed primarily on fish and frogs. Like other garter snakes, this species is live-bearing, and the young are born at a size of about 6 in (10 cm) in the late summer. Range: Owens Valley from Bishop to Lone Pine and streams draining the eastern slopes of the Sierra Nevada. References: Fitch (1940b), Fitch (1941), Rossman and Stewart (1987).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: Owens River just above Aberdeen (UMMZ); 4,000 ft, Alvord, Owens Valley (USNM); Bishop; 4,200 ft, 2 mi W; 4, 100 ft, Laws; Lone Pine (USNM); Tinemaha Creek, 0.5 mi NW of Hwy. 395, 7 mi S Big Pine (LACM). Mono Co.: Fish Slough, 10 mi N Bishop (USNM).

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake,Thamnophis elegans(Baird & Girard, 1853). (Plate 10.39, Map 10.32) 18–36 in (45–90 cm); dorsal background light to dark brown with black spots forming irregular bands; in Owens Valley individuals, a middorsal yellow stripe is present; ventral surface light brown with irregular black patches, which sometimes completely cover the belly; black neck band may extend to top of head. Habitat: This species usually occurs in the vicinity of permanent water but may wander some distance. It frequents mountain streams, rivers, ponds, marshes, and lakes. These snakes are mainly diurnal but are occasionally active at night during the summer. Remarks: This variable species occurs throughout much of the western United States. In the northern portion of the White-Inyo mountains region, the Wandering Garter Snake (T. e. vagrans ) is present; this subspecies has no middorsal stripe. In the Owens Valley, intergrades between this subspecies and the Mountain Garter Snake (T. e. elegans ) occur (see Map 10.32); these intergrades have a middorsal stripe. The stripe will distinguish this species from the Sierra Garter Snake (T. couchii ), which also occurs in the Owens Valley. In addition to fish and frogs, Terrestrial Garter Snakes feed on lizards, mice, and even nestling birds. Young are born in the late summer. Range: Entire length of Owens Valley (T. e. eleganśvagrans );^[1] Fish Lake Valley, streams on the eastern and southern slopes of the White Mountains to at least 8,200 ft (2,500 m), (T. elegans vagrans ). References: Fitch (1941), Fox (1951), White and Kolb (1974).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 4,000 ft, 5 mi NW Big Pine; 5.4 mi S (UMMZ); 4,200 ft, 2 mi W Bishop; Lone Pine (USNM); Roberts Ranch, Wyman Canyon, White Mtns. Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 8,200 ft, Chiatovich Creek, White Mtns; Fish Lake.

Lyre Snake,Trimorphodon biscutatus (Duméril, Bibron & Duméril, 1854). (Plate 10.40, Map 10.33) 24–36 in (60–90 cm); gray dorsal coloration with brown blotches running down back; gray saddle within each brown blotch; white ventral coloration with small brown blotches fringing belly; head wide and flattened with blunt nose; brown V-shaped stripe behind eyes. Habitat: This nocturnal species occurs in rocky Creosote Bush Scrub areas below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). Lyre Snakes are uncommon but can occasionally be observed crossing roads at night. Remarks: The subspecies of Lyre Snake in this area is the California Lyre Snake (T. b. vandenburghi ). The Lyre Snake is a wide-ranging desert and tropical species occurring from Inyo County, California, southern Nevada, and southern Utah to Costa Rica, and from coastal southern California to western Texas. In the past, Lyre Snakes were classified as six distinct species, but recent work suggests that they represent a single, geographically variable species. In tropical Mexico, Lyre Snakes may reach a length of over 5 ft (1.5 m). This is a mildly venomous snake that has enlarged rear fangs. The venom is used to kill small lizards and perhaps small rodents. Lyre Snakes are not considered dangerous to humans but should be handled with caution. Range: In our area, known only from the Panamint Valley below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). Suitable

[Full Size]

Map 10.33

[Full Size]

Map 10.34

habitat is present in the Saline, Eureka, and southern Owens valleys, but no specimens have been recorded (see ? on Map 10.33). References: Cowles and Bogert (1953), Gehlbach (1971), Klauber (1940a).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 1 mi W of Darwin Falls Rd. on Hwy. 190; 3 mi W; 3.2 mi W; 4.6 mi W; Hwy. 190, between Darwin Wash Rd. and 4,000 ft Vista Point; 4.7 mi W Panamint Springs (CAS); 3.5 mi E of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190 (LACM).

Slender Blind Snakes (Family Leptotyphlopidae)

Western Blind Snake,Leptotyphlops humilis(Baird & Girard, 1853). (Plate 10.41, Map 10.34) 6–12 in (15–30 cm); shiny in appearance; dorsal color silver or

light brown with a silver cast; eyes reduced to black spots covered by scales; head, body, and tail of uniform diameter. Habitat: In our area this species appears to be restricted to Creosote Bush Scrub below 5,000 ft (1,520 m). Most specimens have been found in rocky canyons where streams or springs are present. Worm Snakes, as they are commonly called, spend most of the time underground but occasionally are active on the surface at night. Remarks: Blind Snakes of the genus Leptotyphlops occur in Africa, Southwest Asia, South America, Central America, and North America. Most species occur in the tropics, and only two are present in the United States. Western Blind Snakes do not look like typical snakes and could be mistaken for worms because of their small size, uniform diameter, and lack of an obvious head. The greatly reduced eyes are covered by scales and function only to distinguish light intensity. They live underground, commonly in association with termite colonies. Termites, ants, and ant eggs are a major part of their diet. Blind snakes are rarely encountered in the White-Inyo mountains region but are commonly found in the Colorado River region of the Arizona-California border. Range: Canyons draining into the Panamint, Saline, Eureka, and Southern Owens valleys. References: Klauber (1940b), Brattstrom and Schwenkmeyer (1951).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 3,900 ft, Daisy Canyon, Saline Valley (CAS); 27.7 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 4,000 ft, 4,480 ft, 4,500 ft, 4,630 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 5 mi ENE Independence; 9.5 mi W Panamint Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190.

Vipers (Family Viperidae)

Sidewinder,Crotalus cerastes (Hallowell, 1854). (Plate 10.42, Map 10.35) 14–24 in (35–60 cm); light-gray background color with a single row of dark gray to brown oval blotches running down the center of the back; black speckling, occasionally forming indistinct blotches, along sides of body; no distinct black bands at base of rattle; enlarged scale forms a hornlike process above each eye; white stripe across top of each brown eye horn. Habitat: Sidewinders are most commonly encountered in sandy areas below 5,000 ft (1,520 m); however, individuals are occasionally found in rocky areas. They are primarily nocturnal but may be active in the late afternoon. Remarks: The subspecies of Sidewinder in the White-Inyo mountains region is the Mojave Desert Sidewinder (C. c. cerastes ). The Sidewinder reaches its northern distributional limits in the Hammil Valley. It probably ranges as far north as the Queen Valley in Mineral County, Nevada (see ? on Map 10.35). This species is unique among all New World snakes in that it moves sideways. This adaptation allows Sidewinders to move easily over sand dunes. Sidewinding has evolved independently in a few species of sand dune-dwelling vipers that occur in the deserts of northern and southern Africa. Sidewinders are the only rattlesnakes that bury themselves in the sand. It is possible to follow the distinctive S-shaped tracks of this snake and locate the site where the animal has buried itself for the day. Look for a circular depression in the sand, usually at the base of a bush, and watch for the top of the head protruding from the sand. Do not get too close because this is a venomous species. Range: On the west side

[Full Size]

Map 10.35

[Full Size]

Map 10.36

of the Panamint Mountains in the Panamint Valley; on the west side of the White-Inyo Range in the Owens Valley, Chalfant Valley, and Hammil Valley; absent from the Deep Springs Valley and the eastern side of the White-Inyo Range. References: Klauber (1944), Klauber (1972).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 1.9 mi NE Big Pine; 2.4 mi NE; Bishop (SDSNH); Darwin Falls, Argus Mtns.; jct. of Darwin Falls Rd. and Hwy. 190; 0.5 mi W; 3.3 mi E; jct. Hwy. 136 and Hwy. 190; 5.5 mi SE of Hwy. 136 on Hwy. 190; 10.0 mi SE; Keeler; 1 mi S (CMNH); 4 mi SE (SDSNH); 8 mi SE; Laws; Lone Pine; 1.5 mi SE; 3.5 mi SE; 8.6 mi E; 10.0 mi SE; 3.4 mi NW Panamint Springs; 1.6 mi W; 4.1 mi W; 5.2 mi W; 6.1 mi W; 6.3 mi W; 6.5 mi W; 7 mi W; 8.0 mi W; 11.5 mi W; 2.6 mi E Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190; 4,450 ft, Silver Creek Canyon, 5

mi ENE Bishop; E side Tinemaha Reservoir. Mono Co.: 4,840 ft, Cinnamon Ranch, 10 mi SSE Benton; 6.9 mi N Inyo County line on Hwy. 6.

Speckled Rattlesnake,Crotalus mitchellii(Cope, 1861). (Plate 10.43, Map 10.36) 24–36 in (60–100 cm); background color light gray to light brown with narrow gray to dark brown bands running from neck to rattle; bands wider on middle of back than on sides; commonly scattered black and white flecks at margin of bands; ventral coloration cream with scattered black flecks; end of tail and base of rattle black; top of head with two internasal scales in contact with the rostral scale, and supraocular scales pitted or with outer edges broken. Habitat: This snake prefers rocky canyons and rocky slopes surrounding valleys but is occasionally found on valley floors. Speckled Rattlesnakes occur as high as 9,000 ft (2,740 m) in the White Mountains. This species is active during the day in the spring and fall and at high elevations. At lower elevations, it is nocturnal during the summer. Remarks: The subspecies of Speckled Rattlesnake present in this area is the Panamint Rattlesnake (C. m. stephensi ). This snake may be confused with the Western Rattlesnake (C. viridis ) because the two species are similar in size and color pattern. They can be distinguished by careful examination of the scales on the top of the head. The Panamint Rattlesnake has two internasal scales in contact with the rostral scale and has supraocular scales that are pitted or with broken outer edges. The Western Rattlesnake has three or four internasal scales touching the rostral scale, and the supraocular scales are smooth and regular in shape. Speckled Rattlesnakes occur from the tip of Baja California through southern California, western Arizona, and southern Nevada. The northern known limit of its distribution is the Fish Lake Valley. A detailed discussion of the distributional interactions between this species and the Western Rattlesnake is found in the following account. Owing to their size and tendency to rattle when approached, Speckled Rattlesnakes are easily observed. These snakes feed primarily on rodents but will also eat birds and lizards. Range: On the west side of the White-Inyo Range north to at least the Mono County line (see ? on Map 10.36); on the east, in the Panamint, Saline, Eureka, Deep Springs, and Fish Lake valleys; surrounding mountains to around 9,000 ft (2,740 m). References: Klauber (1936), Klauber (1972).

Localities: California, Inyo Co.: 2 mi S Aberdeen [old Aberdeen at railroad] (SDSNH); Barrel Springs, 9 mi NE Independence; Batchelder Spring, 8 mi NE Big Pine; Beveridge Canyon, Saline Valley (FMNH); 6 mi NE Big Pine; 6.3 mi NE; 6.6 mi NE; 7.2 mi NE: 8.2 mi NE; 10.7 mi NE; 23.3 mi NE; 25.6 NE; 27.1 mi NE; 29.4 mi NE; 31.9 mi NE; near Bishop (SDSNH); Darwin Falls; 5.2 mi W of Darwin Falls Rd. on Hwy. 190; 7 mi S of Hwy. 190 on Darwin Rd.; Deep Springs (CMNH); near; E end Deep Springs Valley (SDSNH); 3.7 mi SE of Hwy. 168 on Eureka Valley Rd.; 2,070 m, 10.6 mi SE; 2,150 m, 14.5 mi SE; 1,790 m, 21.8 mi SE; 24.1 mi SE; 24.3 mi SE; 28.1 mi SE; 37.4 mi SE; 40.1 mi SE; 3,300–5,320 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range (CAS); 5,500 ft, Grapevine Canyon, Nelson Range [Willow Creek] (USNM); 5–8 mi N Independence (SDSNH); Jackass Spring, 20 mi N Darwin, Panamint Mtns. (SDSNH); 39 mi E Lone Pine; 8.7 mi SE; 1.9 mi S Mono County line on Hwy. 168; 5 mi NW Panamint Springs; 6.5 mi W; 4.1

mi W of Panamint Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190; 10.1 mi W; 5.7 mi E of Saline Valley Rd. on Hwy. 190; Silver Creek Canyon, White Mtns.; 3.4 mi S Nevada state line on Hwy. 266; summit of Westgard Pass (CAS); Mt. Whitney Fish Hatchery, 5 mi N Independence (LACM); Willow Springs, Saline Valley (AMNH). Nevada, Esmeralda Co.: 3 mi S Dyer (LACM); 3.4 mi N; 7.2 mi S; 1 mi S Fish Lake; 4.0 mi S of Hwy. 6 on Hwy. 264; 2,150 m, Indian Creek, White Mtns.; 7,150 ft, Trail Canyon, White Mtns.

Western Rattlesnake,Crotalus viridis (Rafinesque, 1818). (Plate 10.44, Map 10.36) 28–50 in (70–125 cm); background color light gray to light brown, with narrow gray to dark brown bands running from neck to rattle; bands wider on middle of back than on sides; commonly scattered black and white flecks at margin of bands; ventral coloration cream with scattered black flecks; end of tail and base of rattle black; top of head with three or four prenasal scales in contact with rostral; supraocular scales smooth and regular in shape. Habitat: This snake occurs in valley floors, rocky canyons, and well into the mountains. Western Rattlesnakes are active during the day and are also nocturnal on warm nights. Remarks: The subspecies of Western Rattlesnake that occurs in the area is the Great Basin Rattlesnake (C. v. lutosus ). (See preceding account for characteristics that distinguish this species from the similar Speckled Rattlesnake, C. mitchellii. ) There are eight subspecies of the Western Rattlesnake, ranging from Canada to Mexico. In most places where Western Rattlesnakes occur together with or near other species of rattlesnakes, there are differences in size and color pattern that make it easy to tell the species apart. This is not the case in the White-Inyo mountains region. The Speckled Rattlesnake has been found as far north as Silver Creek Canyon, just south of the Mono County line in the Owens Valley, and at the northern edge of the Fish Lake Valley. The only three specimens of Western Rattlesnake known from the area were collected in the vicinity of the California-Nevada state line in the Queen Valley. These three specimens are similar in color pattern to specimens of Speckled Rattlesnakes taken in the region to the south. These two species may hybridize in the northern White Mountains and adjacent valleys. Unfortunately, no specimens have been obtained from these areas. Range: Northwestern slopes of White Mountains, Queen Valley, and areas north to edge of study area (see ? on Map 10.36). References: Fitch and Glading (1947), Klauber (1972).

Localities: California, Mono Co.: 0.5 mi SW Nevada state line on Hwy. 6. Nevada, Mineral Co.: 6,400 ft, 3.2 mi W Montgomery Pass; 2.3 mi NE California state line on Hwy. 6.

Amphibian and Reptile Diversity in Selected Habitats

A variety of amphibian and reptile habitats are present in the White-Inyo mountains region. In this section, eight sites that are representative of particular habitats have been selected. Each site is on or near a main road and is easily accessible to people who may wish to observe a particular species or the species assemblage at a specific habitat.

Southern Owens Valley

The rocky slopes at the base of the Inyo Mountains are drained by canyons. At the mouth of each canyon a rocky, boulder-strewn alluvial fan gradually merges into the sand dunes around Owens Lake (Fig. 10.6). Scattered Creosote Bushes are present at the base of the mountains.

Amphibians

Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana ). Nocturnal; breeds in temporary pools in sand dunes.

Lizards

Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus ). Nocturnal; most common in rocky areas.

Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ). Diurnal; very common on gravel flats and at bases of sand dunes.

Great Basin Collard Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores ). Diurnal; basks on boulders.

Desert Iguana (Dipsosaurus dorsalis ). Diurnal; uncommon on alluvial fans and around bushes in sand dunes.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii ). Diurnal; basks on small rocks and under bushes; rare on rocky slopes.

Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas; well camouflaged except when basking on small rocks.

Chuckwalla (Sauromalus obesus ). Diurnal; basks on boulders on slopes and in canyons.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister ). Diurnal; occurs in rocky areas and around large bushes in sand dunes.

Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana ). Diurnal; occurs in all habitats; most common lizard in the area.

Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ). Diurnal; present in all habitats; less common in rocky areas.

Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis ). Diurnal; secretive; active under cover objects such as logs and brush piles.

Snakes

Glossy Snake (Arizona elegans ). Nocturnal; usually occurs in sandy areas.

Western Shovel-nosed Snake (Chionactis occipitalis ). Nocturnal; most common among sand dunes.

Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata ). Nocturnal; usually occurs on rocky slopes and in canyons.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.6
East side of Owens Lake, southern Owens Valley.

Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ). Nocturnal during summer, diurnal during spring and fall; occurs in all habitats but rare in sand dunes.

Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ). Diurnal; lives in all habitats but less common in rocky areas.

Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; occurs in all habitats.

Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei ). Nocturnal; most common in sandy areas.

Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas.

Ground Snake (Sonora semiannulata ). Nocturnal; active in the early evening; prefers rocky areas.

Southwestern Black-headed Snake (Tantilla hobartsmithi ). Nocturnal; occurs in rocky areas.

Western Blind Snake (Leptotyphlops humilis ). Nocturnal; occurs in washes of rocky areas; can be common in areas with permanent surface water.

Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes ). Usually nocturnal; occurs in all habitats but most common in sandy areas.

Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; most common in rocky areas.

Southern White Mountains

Tollhouse Spring (Fig. 10.7) is the only source of permanent surface water along the Westgard Pass road (Hwy. 168). There is a fairly extensive area of riparian vegetation around the spring. The Pinyon-juniper Woodland starts just above the spring. A wide, gravelly, boulder-strewn wash below the spring separates the rocky lower slopes of the Inyo Mountains to the south from the White Mountains to the north.

Amphibians

Western Toad (Bufo boreas ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; breeds in stream below Tollhouse Spring; may be extinct.

Black Toad (Bufo exsul ). Diurnal except during heat of midsummer; introduced to Tollhouse Spring; may be extinct.

Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana ). Nocturnal; expected but not confirmed from Tollhouse Spring; known to occur nearby.

Lizards

Panamint Alligator Lizard (Elgaria panamintina ). Usually diurnal but sometimes active after dusk; may climb in vegetation in search of food; sometimes on road at dusk.

Western Banded Gecko (Coleonyx variegatus ). Nocturnal; commonly observed at night on road below spring at around 5,000 ft (1,520 m) elevation.

Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ). Diurnal; occurs in sandy or gravelly washes.

Great Basin Collard Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores ). Diurnal; basks on boulders.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii ). Diurnal; basks on small rocks and under bushes in wash.

Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos ). Diurnal; occurs in wash; may bask on small rocks.

Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus ). Diurnal; occurs from Tollhouse Spring up into Pinyon-juniper Woodland.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister ). Diurnal; basks on rocks and tree trunks.

Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ). Diurnal; basks on rocks, logs, and tree trunks; most common lizard from Tollhouse Spring up into Pinyon-juniper Woodland.

Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana ). Diurnal; most common in wash below spring.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.7
Vicinity of Tollhouse Spring, Westgard Pass, southern White Mountains

Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ). Diurnal but secretive; occurs in riparian vegetation around Tollhouse Spring.

Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ). Diurnal; most common around bushes in wash below spring.

Desert Night Lizard (Xantusis vigilis ). Diurnal but secretive; active under cover objects such as logs and rocks.

Snakes

Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata ). Nocturnal; relatively common on road at night below Tollhouse Spring.

Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ). Diurnal during spring and fall, nocturnal in heat of midsummer; very common around Tollhouse Spring.

Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ). Diurnal; present in all habitats but most common in wash.

Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ). Diurnal; occurs in all habitats.

Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer ). Diurnal during spring and fall, nocturnal during heat of summer; commonly seen on road around Tollhouse Spring.

Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei ). Nocturnal; occasionally seen crossing road below Tollhouse Spring.

Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ). Diurnal; most common in sandy or gravelly washes.

Ground Snake (Sonora semiannulata ). Nocturnal; active in early evening; during the day, expected under rocks around spring.

Southern Black-headed Snake (Tantilla hobartsmithi ). Nocturnal; two records from about 5,500 ft (1,680 m) elevation on road below spring and 6,500 ft (1.980 m) on road above spring.

Sidewinder (Crotalus cerastes ). Usually nocturnal; occurs in all habitats at lower elevations below spring but most common in sandy areas.

Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; occurs in all habitats around Tollhouse Spring.

Central Owens Valley

Along the Owens River are extensive, large tree stands with other riparian vegetation. Such growth is also present around creeks draining the Sierra Nevada (Fig. 10.8). Along the Owens River many side pools provide breeding habitat for amphibians.

In this list only riparian-associated species are discussed. For other species in the area, refer to the southern White Mountains list (except for the Panamint Alligator Lizard, Elgaria panamintina , and the Gilbert Skink, Eumeces gilberti ).

Amphibians

Owens Valley Web-toed Salamander (Hydromantes sp.). Nocturnal; active in spring; occurs under wood and rocks along streams draining the Sierra Nevada.

Western Toad (Bufo boreas ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; breeds in side pools.

Pacific Treefrog (Pseudacris regilla ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; breeds in side pools; occurs along streams and in marsh areas.

Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana ). Nocturnal; breeds in temporary pools.

Lizards

Southern Alligator Lizard (Elgaria multicarinata ). Diurnal but secretive; active in the late afternoon; occurs under wood and rocks along streams draining the Sierra Nevada.

Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus ). Diurnal but secretive; occurs under wood and rocks along streams draining the Sierra Nevada.

Snakes

Sierra Garter Snake (Thamnophis couchii ). Diurnal and wary; highly aquatic; occurs along the Owens River and large streams draining the Sierra Nevada.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.8
East side of the Sierra Nevada in the central Owens Valley.

Western Terrestrial Garter Snake (Thamnophis elegans ). Mainly diurnal but also nocturnal during warm weather; occurs along the Owens River and streams draining the Sierra Nevada; may wander from permanent water.

Queen Valley and Northern White Mountains

The floor of Queen Valley, at an elevation of about 6,000 ft (1,830 m), is covered with typical Great Basin Scrub vegetation (Fig. 10.9). On the southeast side of the valley, Pinyon-juniper Woodland starts on the slopes of the White Mountains at an elevation of 6,800 ft (2,070 m). Springs with dense riparian vegetation are present in Queen and Buffalo canyons.

Amphibians

Western Toad (Bufo boreas ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; occurs in riparian areas in Queen and Buffalo canyons.

Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana ). Nocturnal; breeds in temporary pools; occasionally seen on roads at night during and after rains.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.9
Queen Valley and northern White Mountains.

Lizards

Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ). Diurnal; expected in sandy and gravelly areas below Pinyon-juniper Woodland.

Great Basin Collard Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores ). Diurnal; occurs in rocky areas below about 6,500 ft (1,980 m).

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambeila wislizenii ). Diurnal; basks on small rocks and under bushes; rare on rocky slopes.

Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas; not present above 7,000 ft (2,130 m).

Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus ). Diurnal; common in Pinyon-juniper Woodland.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister ). Diurnal; occurs in rocky slopes and around large bushes below 7,000 ft (2,130 m).

Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ). Diurnal; commonly seen basking on rocks and logs in Pinyon-juniper Woodland; may climb trees to escape when approached.

Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas on valley floor; absent above 7,000 ft (2,130 m).

Western Skink (Eumeces skiltonianus ). Diurnal but secretive; not confirmed but expected in canyons draining the White Mountains.

Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ). Diurnal; occurs up to about 7,500 ft (2,290 m); most common in Great Basin Scrub areas.

Snakes

Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata ). Nocturnal; expected in rocky foothills below 6,500 ft (1,980 m).

Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ). Nocturnal during summer, diurnal during spring and fall; occurs in all habitats below about 7,500 ft (2,290 m).

Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ). Diurnal; expected on valley floor; usually absent above 6,000 ft (1,830 m).

Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ). Diurnal; occurs from valley floor well into Pinyon-juniper Woodland in the foothills.

Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; occurs in all habitats below about 8,000 ft (2,440 m).

Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei ). Nocturnal; expected in sandy areas on valley floor up to about 6,000 ft (1,830 m).

Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas on valley floor; not expected above 6,500 ft (1,980 m).

Ground Snake (Sonora semiannulata ). Nocturnal; active in the early evening; expected in rocky areas up to about 6,000 ft (1,830 m).

Western Rattlesnake (Crotalus viridis ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; present on valley floor; expected in foothills.

Northeastern Argus Mountains

The Panamint Valley has the most Creosote Bush Scrub species. The slopes of the Argus Mountains provide a good habitat for species restricted to rocky Creosote Bush Scrub. Darwin Falls (Fig. 10.10) has an extensive riparian-vegetated area.

All species covered in the southern Owens Valley account occur here (except the Great Basin Spadefoot, Spea intermontana ) and are found in a similar manner. Additional species are discussed in the following list.

Amphibians

Western Toad (Bufo boreas ). Mostly nocturnal but also diurnal; occurs in riparian areas at Darwin Falls; hybridizes with the Red-spotted Toad (Bufo punctatus ).

Red-spotted Toad (Bufo punctatus ). Nocturnal; breeds in pools in Darwin Canyon; hides during the day in rodent burrows or under rocks; hybridizes with the Western Toad (Bufo boreas ).

[Full Size]

Figure 10.10
Darwin Falls, northeastern Argus Mountains.

Snakes

Rosy Boa (Lichanura trivirgata ). Nocturnal; diurnal in late evening and morning during spring; during midsummer nocturnal only; in rocky areas to 5,000 ft (1,520 m).

Spotted Leaf-nosed Snake (Phyllorhynchus decurtatus ). Nocturnal; usually present in sandy or gravelly places.

Lyre Snake (Trimorphodon biscutatus ). Nocturnal; in rocky areas to 5,000 ft (1,520 m).

Base of East Side of Inyo Mountains

Hunter Canyon (Fig. 10.11) is one of several canyons draining the east side of the Inyo Mountains that contains extensive riparian vegetation and surface water all year. The rocky canyon mouth is located at an elevation of about 1,600 ft (490 m) in rocky Creosote Bush Scrub. Only riparian-restricted amphibians and reptiles are discussed here. General lowland Creosote Bush Scrub species that occur here (except for the Great Basin Spadefoot, Spea intermontana , the Glossy Snake, Arizona elegans , and the Sidewinder, Crotalus cerastes ) are covered in the Southern Owens Valley account.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.11
Hunter Canyon, east side of the Inyo Mountains.

Amphibians

Inyo Mountains Slender Salamander (Batrachoseps campi ). Nocturnal; restricted to vicinity of water; lives in mossy, damp crevices and under rocks where ground is wet.

Red-spotted Toad (Bufo punctatus ). Nocturnal; breeds in pools in canyon; hides during the day in rodent burrows or under rocks.

Lizards

Panamint Alligator Lizard (Elgaria panamintina ). Usually diurnal but sometimes active after dusk; may climb in vegetation in search of food.

Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ). Diurnal but secretive; commonly forages in leaf litter.

Northeast Slopes of Inyo Mountains

Joshua Flats (Fig. 10.12), at an elevation of about 6,200 ft (1,890 m) on the Eureka Valley Road, is covered with an extensive stand of Joshua Trees. Pinyon-juniper Woodland is present on the surrounding hills. Several narrow, rocky canyons drain into the flats.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.12
Joshua Flats, northeastern Inyo Mountains.

Lizards

Zebra-tailed Lizard (Callisaurus draconoides ). Diurnal; occurs in sandy or gravelly washes.

Great Basin Collard Lizard (Crotaphytus bicintores ). Diurnal; basks on boulders.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii ). Diurnal; basks on small rocks and under bushes.

Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos ). Diurnal; most common in sandy parts of Joshua Flats.

Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus ). Diurnal; active on ground around bushes; basks on small rocks and logs; occurs in Pinyon-juniper Woodland above flats.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister ). Diurnal; very common at Joshua Flats; climbs high in Joshua Trees.

Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ). Diurnal; basks on rocks and fallen Joshua Trees.

Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana ). Diurnal; most common in sandy part of flats.

Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ). Diurnal but secretive; occurs under large rocks and in piles of Joshua Tree rubble.

Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ). Diurnal; most common around bushes in sandy areas.

Desert Night Lizard (Xantusia vigilis ). Diurnal but secretive; should live in piles of Joshua Tree rubble but has not been found at this site.

Snakes

Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata ). Nocturnal; can be found during the day under fallen Joshua Tree logs; common along road at night.

Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ). Diurnal during spring and fall, nocturnal during midsummer; occurs in all habitats.

Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ). Diurnal; occurs in all habitats but most common in sandy flats.

Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ). Diurnal; occurs in all habitats.

Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer ). Nocturnal during midsummer, diurnal during spring and fall; occurs in all habitats.

Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei ). Nocturnal; expected in sandy areas of Joshua Flats.

Patched-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas but present in all habitats.

Ground Snake (Sonora semiannulata ). Nocturnal; occasionally found by turning rocks and fallen logs.

Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). Both nocturnal and diurnal but not active in heat of day during midsummer.

Deep Springs Valley

Most of the sandy floor of Deep Springs Valley is covered with Great Basin desert vegetation. The lowest point is about 5,000 ft (1,520 m) at Deep Springs Lake. At the southeastern edge of the valley, the flow from Deep Springs forms a marsh of a few acres around Deep Springs Valley (Fig. 10.13). The rocky foothills of the White-Inyo Range, which surround the valley, support stands of pinyon and juniper.

Amphibians

Black Toad (Bufo exsul ). Diurnal, becoming nocturnal during heat of summer; restricted to pools and marshes around springs.

Great Basin Spadefoot (Spea intermontana ). Nocturnal; breeds in pools; occasionally seen on road at night.

[Full Size]

Figure 10.13
Deep Springs Valley

Lizards

Great Basin Collard Lizard (Crotaphytus bicinctores ). Diurnal; basks on boulders in foothills surrounding valley.

Long-nosed Leopard Lizard (Gambelia wislizenii ). Diurnal; basks on small rocks and under bushes; most common in sandy areas.

Desert Horned Lizard (Phrynosoma platyrhinos ). Diurnal; common throughout the valley; commonly seen along the highway.

Sagebrush Lizard (Sceloporus graciosus ). Diurnal; absent from valley floor; occurs in Pinyon-juniper Woodland of foothills.

Desert Spiny Lizard (Sceloporus magister ). Diurnal; occurs in rocky hills and around large bushes on valley floor.

Western Fence Lizard (Sceloporus occidentalis ). Diurnal; lives in rocky foothills; commonly seen basking on rocks along lower Wyman Canyon Road and along highway east of Deep Springs College.

Side-blotched Lizard (Uta stansburiana ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas on valley floor.

Gilbert Skink (Eumeces gilberti ). Diurnal but secretive; rarely seen; appears to be restricted to the vicinity of springs.

Western Whiptail (Cnemidophorus tigris ). Diurnal; occurs throughout valley and surrounding foothills; very common around bushes on valley floor.

Snakes

Night Snake (Hypsiglena torquata ). Nocturnal; occurs in rocky foothills surrounding valley.

Common Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula ). Nocturnal during summer, diurnal during spring and fall; occurs in all habitats.

Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum ). Diurnal; most common on valley floor.

Striped Whipsnake (Masticophis taeniatus ). Diurnal; occurs from valley floor well into Pinyon-juniper Woodland.

Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; occurs in all habitats.

Long-nosed Snake (Rhinocheilus lecontei ). Nocturnal; occurs on valley floor.

Western Patch-nosed Snake (Salvadora hexalepis ). Diurnal; most common in sandy areas on valley floor.

Ground Snake (Sonora semiannulata ). Nocturnal; active in the early evening; prefers rocky areas.

Speckled Rattlesnake (Crotalus mitchellii ). Both nocturnal and diurnal; most common in rocky areas but present on valley floor.

References

Axtell, R. W. 1972. Hybridization between western collard lizards with a proposed taxonomic rearrangement. Copeia 1972:707–727.

Banta, B. H. 1962. A preliminary account of the herpetofauna of the Saline Valley hydrographic basin, Inyo County, California. Wasmann Journal of Biology 20:161–251.

Bennion, R. S., and W. S. Parker. 1976. Field observations of courtship and aggressive behavior in desert striped whipsnakes, Masticophis t. taeniatus. Herpetologica 32:30–35.

Berry, K. 1974. The ecology and social behavior on the chuckwalla, Sauromalus obesus obesus Baird. University of California Publications in Zoology 101:1–60.

Bezy, R. L., and J. W. Sites, Jr. 1987. A preliminary study of allozyme evolution in the lizard family Xantusiidae. Herpetologica 43:280–292.

Bogert, C. M. 1939. A study of the genus Salvadora, the patch-nosed snakes. Publications of the University of California at Los Angeles in Biological Sciences 1:177–236.

Brattstrom, B. H. 1953. Notes on a population of leaf-nosed snakes Phyllorhynchus decurtatus perkinsi. Herpetologica 9:57–64.

Brattstrom, B. H., and R. C. Schwenkmeyer. 1951. Notes on the natural history of the worm snake, Leptotyphlops humilis. Herpetologica 7:193–196.

Braun-Blanquet, J. (translated by G. D. Fuller and H. S. Conrad). 1932. Plant sociology: The study of plant communities . McGraw-Hill, New York.

Carpenter, C. C., and J. C. Gillingham. 1975. Postural responses to kingsnakes by crotaline snakes. Herpetologica 31:293–302.

Cole, C. J. 1984. Unisexual lizards. Scientific American 250(1):94–100.

Cole, C. J., and L. M. Hardy. 1981. Systematics of North American colubrid snakes related to Tantilla planiceps (Blainville). Bulletin of the American Museum of Natural History 171:199–284.

Collins, J. T. 1990. Standard common and current scientific names for North American amphibians and reptiles, 3d ed. Society for the Study of Amphibians and Reptiles, Herpetological Circular no. 190.

Congdon, J. D., L. J. Vitt, and W. W. King. 1974. Geckos: Adaptive significance and energetics of tail autotomy. Science 184:1379–1380.

Cowles, R. B., and C. M. Bogert. 1935. Observations on the California lyre snake, Trimorphodon vandenburghi Klauber, with notes on the effectiveness of its venom. Copeia 1935:80–85.

Elvin D. W. 1963. Variation and distribution of the shovel-nosed snakes (Chionactis occipitalis ) in the northern Mojave Desert, California and Nevada. Herpetologica 19:73–76.

Fitch, H. S. 1935. Natural history of the alligator lizards. Transactions of the Academy of Science at Saint Louis 29:1–38.

Fitch, H. S. 1938. A systematic account of the alligator lizards (Gerrhonotus ) in the western United States and lower California. American Midland Naturalist 20:381–424.

Fitch, H. S. 1940a. A field study of the growth and behavior of the fence lizard. University of California Publications in Zoology 44:151–172.

Fitch, H. S. 1940b. A biogeographical study of the ordinoides artenkreis of garter snakes (genus Thamnophis ). University of California Publications in Zoology 44:1–150.

Fitch, H. S. 1941. The feeding habits of California garter snakes. California Fish and Game 27(2):2–32.

Fitch, H. S., and B. Glading. 1947. A field study of a rattlesnake population. California Fish and Game 33(2):103–123.

Fox, W. 1951. Relationships among the garter snakes of the Thamnophis elegans rassenkreis. University of California Publications in Zoology 50:485–530.

Frost, D. 1983. Relationships of the Baja California ground snakes, genus Sonora. Transactions of the Kansas Academy of Science 86:31–37.

Gehlbach, F. R. 1971. Lyre snakes of the Trimorphodon biscutatus complex: A taxonomic resume. Herpetologica 27:200–211.

Good, D. A. 1988a. Allozyme variation and phylogenetic relationships among the species of Elgaria (Squamata; Anguidae). Herpetologica 44:154–162.

Good, D. A. 1988b. Phylogenetic relationships among Gerrhonotine lizards: An analysis of external morphology. University of California Publications in Zoology . 121:1–139.

Gorman, G. C. 1965. The distribution of Lichanura trivirgata and the status of the species. Herpetologica 21(4): 283–287.

Kay, F. R., B. W. Miller, and C. L. Miller. 1970. Food habits and reproduction and Callisaurus draconoides in Death Valley, California. Herpetologica 26:431–436.

Klauber, L. M. 1931. A new subspecies of the California boa, with notes on the genus Lichanura. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 6:305–318.

Klauber, L. M. 1935. Phyllorhynchus, the leaf-nosed snake . Bulletins of the Zoological Society of San Diego, no. 12.

Klauber, L. M. 1936. Crotalus mitchellii, the speckled rattlesnake. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 8:49–184.

Klauber, L. M. 1940a. The lyre snakes (genus Trimorphodon ) of the United States. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 9:163–194.

Klauber, L. M. 1940b. The worm snakes of the genus Leptotyphlops in the United States and northern Mexico. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 9:87–162.

Klauber, L. M. 1941. The long-nosed snakes of the genus Rhinocheilus. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 9:289–332.

Klauber, L. M. 1944. The sidewinder, Crotalus cerastes, with description of a new subspecies. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 10:91–126.

Klauber, L. M. 1945. The geckos of the genus Coleonyx with descriptions of new subspecies. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 10:133–216.

Klauber, L. M. 1946. The glossy snake, Arizona, with descriptions of new subspecies. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 10:311–398.

Klauber, L. M. 1947. Classification and ranges of the gopher snakes of the genus Pituophis in the western United States . Bulletins of the Zoological Society of San Diego, no. 22.

Klauber, L. M. 1951. The shovel-nosed snake, Chionactis, with descriptions of two new subspecies. Transactions of the San Diego Society of Natural History 11:141–204.

Klauber, L. M. 1972. Rattlesnakes: Their habits, life histories, and influence on mankind, 2d ed. 2 vols. University of California Press, Berkeley.

Macey, J. R. 1986. The biogeography of a herpetofaunal transition between the Great Basin and Mojave deserts. In C. A. Hall, Jr. and D. J. Young (eds.). Natural history of the White-Inyo Range, eastern California and western Nevada, and high altitude physiology, pp. 119–128. University of California White Mountain Research Station Symposium, August 23–25, 1985, Bishop, Calif., vol. 1.

Miller, A. H., and R. C. Stebbins. 1964. The lives of desert animals in Joshua Tree National Monument . University of California Press, Berkeley.

Montanucci, R. R. 1983. Natural hybridization between two species of collard lizards (Crotaphytus ). Copeia 1983:1–11.

Montanucci, R. R., R. W. Axtell, and H. C. Dessauer. 1975. Evolutionary divergence among collard lizards (Crotaphytus ), with comments on the status of Gambelia. Herpetologica 31:336–347.

Murphy, R. W. 1983. Paleobiogeography and genetic differentiation of the Baja California herpetofauna . Occasional Papers of the California Academy of Sciences, no. 137.

Norris, K. S. 1953. The ecology of the desert iguana Dipsosaurus dorsalis. Ecology 34:265–287.

Norris, K. S., and S. L. Kavanau. 1966. The burrowing of the western shovel-nosed snake, Chionactis occipitalis Hallowell, and the undersand environment. Copeia 1966:650–664.

Ortenburger, A. I. 1928. The whip snakes and racers: Genera Masticophis and Coluber. Memoirs of the University of Michigan Museums, no. 1.

Papenfuss, T. J. 1986. Amphibian and reptile diversity along elevational transects in the White-Inyo Range. In C. A. Hall, Jr. and D. J. Young (eds.). Natural history of the White-Inyo Range, eastern California and western Nevada, and high altitude physiology, pp. 129–136. University of California White Mountain Research Station Symposium, August 23–25, 1985, Bishop, Calif., vol. 1.

Parker, W. S. 1972. Ecological study of the western whiptail lizard, Cnemidophorus tigris gracilis, in Arizona. Herpetologica 28:360–369.

Parker, W. S., and W. S. Brown. 1980. Comparative ecology of two colubrid snakes, Masticophis t. taeniatus and Pituophis deserticola, in northern Utah . Milwaukee Public Museum Publications in Biology and Geology, no. 7.

Parker, W. S., and E. R. Pianka. 1973. Notes on the ecology of the iguanid lizard, Sceloporus magister. Herpetologica 29:143–152.

Parker, W. S., and E. R. Pianka. 1975. Comparative ecology of populations of the lizard Uta stansburiana. Copeia 1975:615–632.

Parker, W. S., and E. R. Pianka. 1976. Ecological observations on the leopard lizard (Crotaphytus wislizeni ) in different parts of its range. Herpetologica 32:95–114.

Phelan, R. L., and B. H. Brattstrom. 1955. Geographic variation in Sceloporus magister. Herpetologica 11:1–14.

Pianka, E. R. 1971. Comparative ecology of two lizards. Copeia 1971:129–138.

Pianka, E. R., and W. S. Parker. 1972. Ecology of the iguanid lizard Callisaurus draconoides. Copeia 1972:493–508.

Pianka, E. R., and W. S. Parker. 1975. Ecology of horned lizards: A review with special reference to Phrynosoma platyrhinos. Copeia 1975:141–162.

Rodgers, T. L., and H. S. Fitch. 1947. Variation in the skinks (Reptilia: Lacertilia) of the skiltonianus group. University of California in Zoology 48:169–220.

Rossman, D. A., and G. R. Stewart. 1987. Taxonomic reevaluation of Thamnophis couchii (Serpentes: Colubridae ). Occasional Papers of the Museum of Zoology, Louisiana State University, no. 63.

Sanborn, S. R., and R. B. Loomis. 1979. Systematics and behavior of collard lizards (Crotaphytus, Iguanidae) in southern California. Herpetologica 35:101–106.

Shannon, F. A., and F. L. Humphrey. 1963. Analysis of color pattern polymorphism in the snake, Rhinocheilus lecontei. Herpetologica 19:153–160.

Simpson, G. G. 1960. Notes on the measurement of faunal resemblance. American Journal of Science 258:300–311.

Smith, N. M., and W. W. Tanner. 1974. A taxonomic study of the western collard lizards, Crotaphytus collaris and Crotaphytus insularis. Brigham Young University Science Bulletin, Biological Series, vol. 19, no. 4.

Stebbins, R. C. 1944. Field notes on a lizard, the mountain swift, with special reference to territorial behavior. Ecology 25:233–245.

Stebbins, R. C. 1954. Amphibians and reptiles of western North America . McGraw-Hill, New York.

Stebbins, R. C. 1958. A new alligator lizard from the Panamint Mountains, Inyo County California . American Museum Novitates, no. 1883.

Stebbins, R. C. 1985. A field guide to western amphibians and reptiles . Houghton Mifflin, Boston.

Stebbins, R. C., and H. B. Robinson. 1946. Further analysis of a population of the lizard Sceloporus graciosus gracilis. University of California Publications in Zoology 48:149–168.

Tanner, W. W. 1944. A taxonomic study of the genus Hypsiglena. Great Basin Naturalist 5:25–92.

Tanner, W. W. 1957. A taxonomic and ecological study of the western skink (Eumeces skiltonianus ). Great Basin Naturalist 17:59–94.

Tanner, W. W., and J. M. Hopkin. 1972. Ecology of Sceloporus occidentalis longipes Baird on Rainier Mesa, Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada . Brigham Young University Science Bulletin, Biological Series, vol. 15, no. 4.

Tanner, W. W., and C. D. Jorgensen. 1963. Reptiles of the Nevada Test Site . Brigham Young University Science Bulletin, Biological Series, vol. 3, no. 31.

Tanner, W. W., and J. E. Krogh. 1973. Ecology of Phrynosoma platyrhinos at the Nevada Test Site, Nye County, Nevada. Herpetologica 29:327–342.

Tinkle, D. W. 1967. The life and demography of the side-blotched lizard, Uta Stansburiana. Miscellaneous Publications, Museum of Zoology, University of Michigan, no. 132.

Tinkle, D. W. 1973. A population analysis of the sagebrush lizard, Sceloporus graciosus, in southern Utah. Copeia 1973:284–296.

Tollestrup. K. 1982. Growth and reproduction in two closely related species of leopard lizards, Gambelia silus and Gambelia wislizenii. American Midland Naturalist 108:1–20.

White, M., and J. A. Kolb. 1974. A preliminary study of Thamnophis near Sagehen Creek, California. Copeia 1974:126–136.

Wilson, L. D. 1970. The coachwhip snake, Masticophis flagellum (Shaw): Taxonomy and distribution. Tulane Studies in Zoology and Botany 16:31–99.

Wright, J. W., and C. H. Lowe. 1968. Weeds, polyploids, parthenogenesis, and the geographical and ecological distribution of all-female species of Cnemidophorus. Copeia 1968:128–138.

Zweifel, R. G., and C. H. Lowe. 1966. The ecology of a population of Xantusia vigilis, the desert night lizard . American Museum Novitates, no. 2247.