fox snake

noun

1. a brown-blotched nonvenomous snake, Elaphe vulpina, of north-central U.S., that vibrates its tail and emits a pungent odor when disturbed.

Word History and Origins

Origin of fox snake¹

First recorded in 1855–60; apparently so called from its reddish color

Example Sentences

“Meet Karen,” she said to the fox snake.

From Washington Post

There were 82 in all, including one western fox snake, some of them outfitted with microchips so their movements can be tracked.

From Chicago Tribune

They saved mostly garter and brown snakes along with that lone western fox snake.

From Chicago Tribune

The Fox Snake is quite common in the Central states.

From Project Gutenberg

Like the Fox Snake it will emit an unpleasant odor when caught.

From Project Gutenberg