Telfair County, GA

Eastern coachwhip

(Masticophis flagellum flagellum)

The eastern coachwhip is a slender and agile snake native to the southeastern United States. Coachwhips are known for their incredible speed and agility. They are masterful hunters, preying on small mammals, birds, and even other snakes. Coachwhips can effortlessly and swiftly maneuver through various terrains, including forests, fields, and coastal plains. Despite its potentially intimidating appearance and lightning-fast movements, the eastern coachwhip is non-venomous and prefers to flee when confronted (though they do have a tendency to be quite bitey once picked up).

Few of my photos have received as much engagement as this coachwhip photo. It has the ability to make even the most snake-fearing people admit that snakes can be cute.