Features: The Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor foxii) is a large, 1.5 metre long snake, named both for its speed and distinctive greyish-blue or blue green colour. Its preferred habitat is long grass prairie, savanna, alvar and open woodlands, but it also lives in rough pasture and regenerating fields of farms. Hayfields ensure a plentiful supply of rodent prey, while hedgerows and old stone walls provide cover and den sites, respectively. In winter, the Blue Racer hibernates below the frost line in rock formations and quarries.

Status: Endangered Provincially and Nationally

Range: In Ontario, the Blue Racer occurs only on Pelee Island in western Lake Erie. Historically, the species lived in mainland prairie and savannah habitats in Ontario representing the easternmost extension of the great western prairie. To the south and west of Ontario, the range of the species extends through Ohio and Iowa to southeastern Minnesota. The Blue Racer is considered relatively common in parts of its United States range, but it has declined significantly in much of the Midwest. Intergrades with the Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer are found where the ranges of the two subspecies overlap. Range Maps

Threats: Modern "clean farming" practices have reduced potential habitat for Blue Racers in much of southwestern Ontario. Current threats include habitat degradation, loss of overwintering sites, human persecution, and mortality attributable to vehicles as snakes attempt to cross roads.

Protection: The Blue Racer is protected under the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Act, and is listed under Ontario's Endangered Species Act, 2007, which protects the species and its habitat. The Natural Heritage component of the Provincial Policy Statement under Ontario's Planning Act provides for the protection of significant portions of the habitat of species listed in regulation under the E.S.A.. In addition, Ontario's Conservation Land Tax Incentive Program (CLTIP) will provide 100% tax relief to private landowners for the portion of their property (minimum size 0.5 acres) determined to be habitat of species in regulation under the E.S.A. This program recognizes, encourages and supports private land stewardship. On Pelee Island, some habitats are protected in a provincial nature reserve and in a privately-owned reserve. A recovery plan for this species in Ontario is nearing completion.

Text Sources: Wilson 2002; Campbell et al. 1991b; Cook 1984; Conant 1975

Last Modified Date: October 2008