Genus · Colubridae
Haitiophis
The genus Haitiophis contains a single species. It is not considered dangerous to humans.
About Hispaniolan racers
A small Caribbean genus of fast, slender racers found only on the island of Hispaniola.
Haitiophis is a genus in the family Colubridae, the largest and most widespread snake family in the world. Colubrids are the typical non-venomous and mildly venomous snakes most people picture: slim, agile, often active by day, and built for chasing rather than ambushing prey. Haitiophis sits among the West Indian racers, a group of colubrids that colonized the Caribbean islands and diversified there. The genus is best known from a single recognized species in most treatments, the Hispaniola racer, which is restricted to Hispaniola, the island shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic.
As an island racer, the Hispaniola racer is a long, lean, fast-moving snake with smooth scales, a slender body, and large eyes suited to active daytime hunting. Members of this genus occupy a range of habitats across Hispaniola, from dry scrub and forest edges to more humid woodland and human-altered areas. Like other colubrid racers, it relies on speed and alertness rather than concealment, foraging actively and fleeing quickly when disturbed. Diet for racers of this type typically centers on small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, and other small prey, taken by pursuit.
Snakes in this group are best treated as rear-fanged colubrids: any saliva-borne secretions are adapted for subduing small prey and are not considered medically dangerous to people, and these snakes are not aggressive toward humans. That said, the safe and responsible practice with any wild snake is to observe it and leave it alone rather than handle it. Do not attempt to catch or pick up a wild snake. If a person is bitten and there is concern, or for any snakebite involving an unknown snake, contact US Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or your local emergency services.
Haitiophis belongs to the Colubridae family (Colubrids). The largest snake family, and the one most snakes you meet belong to. Typically round pupils, a head only slightly wider than the neck, and no heat-sensing facial pit or rattle. Scales may be smooth and glossy or keeled and matte depending on the species.
Danger: Almost all colubrids are harmless. A small number are rear-fanged with medically significant venom, the boomslang and the twig (vine) snakes of Africa being the dangerous exceptions. Most colubrids will flee or bluff rather than bite.
All species (1)
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