Eastern Hognose Snake (Heterodon platirhinos)

Eastern Hognose Snakes are named for their upturned, pointed snout, which looks a little like a hog's nose if you use your imagination.

Moore Co., NC 4/20/05.

When disturbed, they flatten their head out like a cobra to make it look more dangerous. Despite the looks, Hognose Snakes are quite harmless and will often play dead when harassed. These photos are all of the same individual.

Moore Co., NC 4/20/05.

This black form Eastern Hognose is trying very hard to look threatening.

Pender Co., NC 4/23/06.

Eastern Hognose is found throughout North Carolina. There is a similar species in the southern Coastal Plain, Southern Hognose, but it is much smaller than the medium-large sized Eastern Hognose.

Moore Co., NC 4/20/05.

A young Hog-nose practicing its cobra display.

Hoke Co., NC 9/12/04.

Same photo. Hoke Co., NC 9/12/04.