The Eastern Coachwhip is somewhat common throughout Harris County. They have a most unique pattern in that the body color fades as you progress down towards the tail. An extremely agile and speedy snake, these are not something the average Harris County resident ever sees. In fact, you are much more likely to hear one of these swiftly moving away through the underbrush than you are to see one!

This is one of those snakes that is surrounded in myths and legends. People used to believe that this snake had the ability to lash out with its tail - like a whip - causing incredible wounds. And it was also believed that coachwhips would grab their tail in their mouth, form a circle and roll along like a Hula-Hoop to catch prey - and people!