The marked change from black or dark brown "foward" to light brown "aft" is unique among our snakes, but the amount of dark pigment is variable. Some specimens have only thier heads and necks dark, others may be half and half and still others may show light pigment only on the tail and rear of body. Coloration of belly corresponds with that of back. Scalation on the long slender tail suggests a braided whip. Minimum number of scale rows (just anterior to anus) is 13 ( 15 in black racers). Scales smooth ; anal divided.