9-17-09

Trip Details

Start Time: 8:30 a.m.

Weather: Sunny. 65 degrees for a high. Mild wind.

Location: Franklin Co. Kansas

Herpers: Matt Ricklefs

Account by: Matt Ricklefs

Photos by: Matt Ricklefs

Thought of the Day: Anniversary Herps

It wasn’t a great day, but it was the only time I had. My wife and I went to Kansas City to celebrate our 10 year anniversary and I made a quick jaunt south to hit a few spots. The night before was cool and the morning (which was all I had) was sub-par. I still had hopes even with only a couple hours to herp.
Taking out the Great Plains Skinks, Ring-Neck Snakes and Wood Scorpions I found which are a given in Kansas (thought not a lot, which in itself was not a great sign) my first find was a Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) about 14 inches long.

As it was fairly nicely colored I took a few pics. It posed reluctantly.
I actually went for a while and found nothing which was disappointing given that I was in a great area. My next find, although a juvenile, was the nice find of the day. It was a Speckled King Snake (Lampropeltis getula holbrooki).

It was about 6 inches long. It was very nicely colored although just starting to shed and posed fairly well.
My last find before heading back north was a grungy and in-shed Black Rat Snake (Elaphe obsoleta).

Not a great last find, but a find nonetheless. It was about 26 inches long.

Happy 10th Anniversary to my wonderful wife Janie and Happy Herpin’ to all!