GAP Analysis Predicted Distribution Map

Racer  Coluber constrictor

Species Code: COLCO

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Metadata (Data about data or how the map was made)

Legend:
= Core Habitat
= Marginal Habitat

Predicted Distribution
Reptiles do not migrate as some birds and mammals, so the colored areas depict the predicted range for the Racer year-round. The habitats were identified using 1991 satellite imagery, other datasets and experts throughout the state, as part of the Washington Gap Analysis Project.

Other maps & Information:
  • NatureMapping observations throughout the year
  • Links to pictures and other information about this species

Distribution and Habitat Requirements
The northern limit of this species parallels front depth contours in some areas and appears related to mean summer temperatures. This species is found in meadows, sagebrush flats, forest edges and fence rows. Brown and Parker (1976) found that more than 90% of C. constrictor) returned to the same hibernaculum each year. The high percentage of den fidelity may increase its vulnerability to human habitat modification. An egg-laying reptile, such as C. constrictor, may also use open oak woodlands in a dry region or where soils are well-drained.

Models
The Northwest, Southwest and East Central Cascades ecoregions, Columbia Basin, Blue Mountains, Northeast Corner and Okanogan Highlands ecoregions were selected. All zones in the Columbia Basin were core, plus Oak, Ponderosa Pine, Interior Douglas-fir and Western Hemlock. In the Northeast Cascades, only steppe zones were included. Grasslands, shrub savannas, shrublands and soil conservation reserve lands were good habitats. Non-irrigated agriculture was adequate habitat. Since the point locations in the Puget Trough and the Vancouver areas were pre-1970, with no more recent sightings, it has been assumed that the species has been eliminated in those locations.

Translated from the Washington Gap Analysis Amphibians and Reptiles Volume by Karen Dvornich

Webpage designed by Dave Lester.