TEXAS TECH UNIVERSITY

Natural Science Research Laboratory

Occasional Papers

Museum of Texas Tech University

Number 274 9 June 2008

Herpetofauna of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and Alibates
Flint Quarries National Monument and the Vicinity (Potter, Hutchinson,

and Moore Counties, Texas)

Michael Patrikeev

Abstract

Herpetofauna of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and Alibates Flint Quarries Na¬
tional Monument (Texas, USA) is not well known. The current study (2002-03) documents nine
species of amphibians and 28 species of reptiles; in addition, one species of amphibian and seven
species of reptiles are known from museum specimens. Three species ( Bufo debilis insidior,
Cnemidophorus tesselatus, and Rhinocheilus lecontei tesselatus ) are new for Moore County.
The distributions of Bufo debilis insidior and Thamnophis sirtalis annectens were adjusted. An
additional 13 species (three amphibians and 10 reptiles) were recorded on adjacent lands in the
past, and some of those species may occur in the two protected areas as well.

Key words: amphibians, Lake Meredith, reptiles, Texas Panhandle

Introduction

The north-central Texas Panhandle lacks recent
herpetological assessment, and Lake Meredith National
Recreation Area and Alibates Flint Quarries National
Monument have never been thoroughly surveyed for
amphibians and reptiles. The only detailed herpetologi¬
cal study in the region was conducted at the Bugbee
Ranch east of Stinnett (Hutchinson County) in 1950
when 846 specimens of reptiles belonging to 31 species
were collected (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955). That
study, however, omitted amphibians. A brief survey by
Scudday and Scudday (1975) at the Mansfield Ranch,
Oldham County, during 19 to 29 June 1974 yielded
only four species of amphibians and 10 to 11 species
of reptiles. The Bugbee Ranch lies 27 km NNW of
the northeastern limits of Lake Meredith National

Recreation Area, and the Mansfield Ranch is 45 km
W of its southwestern limits. The only known docu¬
ment containing information on herpetofauna of Lake
Meredith National Recreation Area is a list of vertebrate
animals prepared by Philips (1989). The list, however,
is neither annotated nor substantiated by specimens or
photographs, and it is not clear whether Philips used
his personal observations, published distributional
maps, or both when compiling the list. The current
study of herpetofauna of these protected areas was
conducted in 2002-03 during a comprehensive inven¬
tory of vertebrate animals undertaken in a cooperative
project between the US National Park Service and The
Nature Conservancy.

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Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Study Area

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area (Lake
Meredith NRA) is located within the western extension
of the Rolling Plains in the Texas Panhandle (Potter,
Moore, and Hutchinson counties) and encompasses
18,216 ha of uplands, steep slopes, arid plains, wet¬
lands, and 4,000 ha of open water. Alibates Flint Quar¬
ries National Monument (Alibates Flint Quarries NM)
comprises 555 ha of uplands and abuts Lake Meredith
NRA in the northeastern part of Potter County (National
Park Service 2000, 2001). The Canadian River has
carved a narrow, steep-walled canyon 60 to 90 m deep
and up to 3.3 km wide through the area. Between this
canyon and the surrounding caprock, many tributary
streams have created a rough and broken topography,
known as the Canadian River Breaks. Construction of
the Sanford Dam between these “breaks” in 1962 cre¬
ated a large reservoir: Lake Meredith. The area lies at
elevations 855-1,013 m above sea level (National Park
Service 2001). Coordinates of locations mentioned in
the text can be found in the Appendix.

Climate of the area is semi-arid with consider¬
able seasonal ranges in temperature, from the average
of -7°C in winter to +33°C in summer. The average
annual rainfall is ca. 500 mm, 70% of which falls be¬
tween April and September. The area receives almost
constant winds of ca. 20 km/hour, often reaching 50
to 60 km/hour in early spring. Estimated evaporation
rates (largely due to the winds) are 60 to 65% of the
total precipitation (National Park Service 2001). Ac¬
cording to Texas Water Management Board data (2006)
the area experienced several droughts as well as wetter
years between 1940 and 2004. Fouquette and Lindsay’s
(1955) study at Bugbee Ranch coincided with one of
the wetter periods, whereas the surveys reported here
took place during a drought. Examination of Texas
Water Management Board data revealed that average
precipitation in 2000-03 was 32.7% less than that dur¬
ing 1948-50 (425 vs. 632 mm), e.g., rainfall between
April and September decreased by 48.3% (from 515
to 266 mm). The most conspicuous decrease occurred
during the months of July and August (Fig. 1).

The vegetation of Lake Meredith NRA and Ali¬
bates Flint Quarries NM was assessed by Nesom and
O’Kennon (2005) and found to be “mostly in good

condition” or representative of the area, especially
when compared to similar vegetation types outside the
parks. The following description of the parks’ habitats
was adopted from Nesom and O’Kennon (2005). To
be able to compare this study to that of Fouquette and
Lindsay (1955), the parks’ habitat types were grouped
into rocky slopes and uplands, sandy areas, riparian
areas, and marsh. There is also a man-modified borrow
area at the northeastern end of Lake Meredith NRA.

Rocky slopes consist of red sandstone slopes,
gravelly slopes, Dolomite caprock, and few gypsum
outcrops. These slopes are dominated by broom
snakeweed ( Gutierrezia sarothrae ), small soapweed
yucca ( Yucca glauca), woolly locoweed ( Astragalus
mollissimus), white sagebrush ( Artemisia ludoviciana),
fragrant mimosa ( Mimosa borealis ), featherplume (Da-
leaformosa), sideoats grama (Bouteloua curtipendula),
and blue grama ( B. gracilis ), with scattered one-seeded
juniper (Juniperus monosperma ), and honey mesquite
(Prosopis glandulosa). Lace hedgehog cactus (Echino-
cereus reichenbachii ) and plains prickly-pear (Opuntia
polyacantha) are common cacti.

Sandy areas include sandhills, sandflats, and san¬
dy valley bottoms. Rolling hills and flats of relatively
deep, loose sand are dominated by sand sagebrush
(Artemisia filifolia ), annual buckwheat ( Eriogonum
annuum), small soapweed yucca, sand dropseed
(Sporobolus cryptandrus), purple sandgrass (Triplasis
purpurea ), witchgrass (Panicum capillare ), and scat¬
tered honey mesquite and patches of Chickasaw plum
(Prunus angustifolia). Sandflats are dominated by
grasses, especially vine mesquite (Panicum obtusum)
and western wheatgrass (Pascopyrum smithii ), with
sand dropseed, streambed bristlegrass (Setaria leuco-
pila), and sideoats grama in lesser abundance.

Riparian areas include cottonwood woodlands
and hackberry-soapberry dry woodland along the larger
drainages. Dominant trees and shrubs are plains cotton¬
wood (Populus deltoides var. monilifera), Chickasaw
plum, netleaf hackberry (Celtis reticulata), western
soapberry (Sapindus drummondii ), common hoptree
(Ptelea trifoliata), fragrant sumac (Rhus aromatica),
and willows (Salix). Herbaceous species are represent-

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

3

E

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Figure 1.
2000-03.

♦ 1948-50
2000-03

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Average monthly precipitation in the central Texas Panhandle in 1948-50 and

ed by grasses, e.g., switchgrass ( Panicum virgatum ),
Indian grass (Sorghastrum nutans), Canada wild-rye
(Elymus canadensis), and little bluestem ( Schizachy-
rium scoparium). Plains prickly-pear is also common.
Common reed ( Phragmites australis) and southern
cattail ( Typha domingensis) grow in the wettest habi¬
tats. Along relatively narrow channels of permanent
or seasonal flow there are sedge meadows dominated
by Cyperaceae (Nesom and O’Kennon 2005). Varying
lake levels have encouraged the encroachment of non¬
native salt cedar ( Tamarix ramosissima) in floodplain
areas (National Park Service 2001).

Marsh habitat is common at the south end of Lake
Meredith, along the Canadian River, and immediately
below Sanford Dam (Sanford Marsh). The marshes are
dominated by southern cattail and common threesquare
( Schoenoplectuspungens) in areas of deeper water, with
common reed and spiny chloracantha ( Chloracantha
spinosa) around the edges. Pondweed ( Zannichellia
palustris and Potamogetonpectinatus) occur in deeper
channels and pools (Nesom and O’Kennon 2005).
Wetlands comprise ca. 34% of Lake Meredith NRA
(National Park Service 2001).

The borrow area at the north end of Lake Mer¬
edith NRA, between North Canyon and FM 1319, had
large amounts of rock and soil removed ca. 1962-1968
for construction of Sanford Dam. This area is now
relatively flat, consistently scraped down to a level of
reddish sandstone and sandy clay and naturally reveg¬
etated over the last 40 years. Honey mesquite is the
dominant shrub-small tree of the borrow area. Other
common species are broom snakeweed, white heath
aster ( Symphyotrichum ericoides), yellow bluestem
(Bothriochloa ischaemum), sideoats grama, and sand
dropseed (Nesom and O’Kennon 2005).

Oil and gas exploration and development have
been actively pursued in the vicinity of Lake Meredith
NRA and Alibates Flint Quarries NM since the late
1920s, well before establishment of the parks. In the
parks today, there are 170 active well sites, 64 km of ac¬
tive oil field access roads, 167 km of abandoned roads,
and 6 km of existing oil and gas pipelines (National
Park Service 2001).

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Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Methods

Methods followed the “Study Plan for Biological
Inventories, Southern Plains Network, National Park
Service” (National Park Service 2000). Vouchers for
amphibian and reptile species were allowed in the form
of photographs, journal articles and technical reports,
and physical specimens. Photographic evidence was
used whenever possible. Photographic vouchers can
be found in Patrikeev (2004). Specimens collected
during this study were deposited in the collection of
West Texas A&M University (WTAMU). Threatened
species were not collected (unless found dead).

Visual encounters involved systematic and oppor¬
tunistic searches such as turning over rocks, logs, and
other debris, or looking into rock crevices and cracks
in structures. Some amphibians and reptiles were re¬
corded during surveys for other vertebrate groups.

Eighty-two coverboard stations were set up in
randomly selected sites in the study area in March-April
2002: 74 in Lake Meredith NRA and 8 in Alibates Flint
Quarries NM. Each coverboard station consisted of
3 coverboards: two made of chipboard material (0.7
x 1.3 m), and one of roofing tin (0.8 x 1.5 m). It was
assumed that species that prefer dry microhabitats
would be found under coverboards made of roofing
tin, and species preferring wetter microhabitats would
select chipboards. During this study, coverboards were
checked from 20 May to 9 August 2002 and from 18
April to 10 June 2003. In the dry and hot summers of
2002-03, coverboards proved ineffective; temperature
under coverboards (especially roofing tin) was consid¬
erable, and no visibly detectable moisture accumulated
under chipboards even after summer rains. Thus, after
initial efforts, coverboards were checked on a rather
ad hoc basis.

Night road surveys were undertaken on rainy or
warm and humid nights, and conducted by slowly driv¬

ing roads looking for reptiles and amphibians crossing
roadways. Detected individuals were captured, identi¬
fied, and photographed. All paved park roads and the
majority of accessible unpaved roads were surveyed.
In total, 24 night searches were conducted: 13 in 2002
(28 April; 2, 10, 13-15, 18, 20, 26 June; 4, 13, 17 July;
and 8 August) and 11 in 2003 (25, 29 April; 4, 6, 15,
28 May; 14, 18, 20 June; and 12 and 16 July).

Auditory amphibian surveys for frogs and toads
were conducted in freshwater habitats during March
through June 2002 and 2003 (usually following a spell
of warm weather in spring, and after rains later in the
season). These surveys were conducted at Sanford
Marsh, the Plum Creek boat ramp, along FM 1913, and
along other roads within the study area when temporary
pools appeared in ditches following summer rains.

Large hoop traps were used to carry out two
rounds of turtle trapping in September 2002: 6 trap-
nights at Sanford Marsh (5-9 September), and 4 trap-
nights in the Canadian River at Mullinaw Crossing
(16-17 September).

The following collections were examined: Texas
A&M University, College Station (TAMU); Texas
Natural History Collection - University of Texas Me¬
morial Museum, Austin (TNHC-UTMM); University
of Texas at Arlington (UTA); West Texas A&M Uni¬
versity, Canyon (WTAMU).

The following permits governed research activi¬
ties conducted during this project: 1) NPS Scientific
Research and Collecting Permit # Lake Meredith NRA-
2002-SCI-0001; 2) Texas Park and Wildlife Department
Scientific Collections Permit # SPR-0102-193.

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Results and Discussion

This study recorded the presence of nine species
of amphibians and 28 species of reptiles. An additional
eight species (one amphibian and seven reptiles) were
known from Lake Meredith NRA-Alibates Flint Quar¬
ries NM previously and may still occur in the area.

CLASS AMPHIBIA

Night road searches and visits to potential breed¬
ing sites proved more effective than other techniques
for detecting amphibians. No amphibians were found
under cover boards. Employment of drift fences might
increase survey effectiveness for amphibians.

ORDER C AUDATA
Family Ambystomatidae
Ambystoma tigrinum mavortium
Barred Tiger Salamander

Cryptic or rare. Not recorded in either park dur¬
ing this study, but one found crossing FM 1913 ca. 3.5
km west of Big Blue Creek Bridge on a rainy night of
18 June 2003. Four specimens including a transformed
larvae from Potter and Hutchinson counties within
Lake Meredith NRA are in the WTAMU collection.
This species was common in stock tanks at Mansfield
Ranch in 1974 (Scudday and Scudday 1975).

ORDER ANURA
Family Hylidae
Acris crepitans blanchardi
Blanchard’s Cricket Frog

Very common in marshes at the very north of Lake
Meredith NRA (Sanford Marsh, Hutchinson County).
Not found in other seemingly suitable marshes, e.g.,
at Bonita Creek, Rosita Meadows, near Plum Creek
boat ramp, or elsewhere in the Canadian River Valley.
At Sanford Marsh, calling recorded from mid-April
through August. Individual calling males (5-10) could
be counted 18-22 April 2002, but overwhelming chorus
was prevalent on 28 April 2002 and through May, June,
and July. One male collected at Sanford Marsh is in
WTAMU collection (15114).

Family Bufonidae
Bufo cognatus
Great Plains Toad

Listed by Philips (1989) without a photographic
record or a specimen. R. J. O’Kennon (pers. comm.)
reported seeing one in Spring Canyon-Sanford Marsh
area in late May 2002. This species was not detected
during many hours of night surveys at Sanford Marsh
and elsewhere in 2002-03. Great Plains Toads had
been collected in the vicinity of Dumas, Borger, and
Stinnett (the two latter locations only ca. 12 and 15 km
from Lake Meredith NRA, respectively), but the bulk
of those records is from 1949-1950 (TNHC-UTMM,
UTA, TAMU collections). In 1974, many were seen at
Mansfield Ranch after light rain (Scudday and Scudday
1975). The two most recent records are from Britains
Ranch north of Stinnett in 1985 (WTAMU collection).
If this species still persists in Lake Meredith NRA, it
is likely rare.

Bufo debilis insidior
Western Green Toad

Common but cryptic. Occurs in sandy areas and
gradual slopes of Lake Meredith NRA and may be pres¬
ent in Alibates Flint Quarries NM. Emerges to breed
after first summer rains, and forages on the surface (e.g.,
paved roads) on rainy or humid nights. Earliest record
on 15 May; latest record on 4 July. Breeds in marshes,
roadside ditches, and other ephemeral pools. Onset of
breeding during 10-14 June coincided with summer
rains in 2002 and 2003. Calling continued at least until
18 June during both years. Breeding congregations
were recorded in a marshy area at Plum Creek boat
ramp, and in a roadside ditch in Bates Canyon (both
in Potter County). Only five to six calling males were
found at the latter location, and the ditch dried out by
20 June 2002. During night searches, this species was
encountered in Bates Canyon, Plum Creek, and along
Cas Johnson Road (Potter County), Bugbee Canyon
and on Sanford-Yake Road (Hutchinson County), and
at Blue West (Moore County). The latter record (five
toads on 17 June 2003) might be the first confirmed
Moore County record (not shown in Dixon 2000).

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Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Taxonomic note. —Two subspecies of Bufo debilis
occur in Texas: the Eastern Green Toad, B. d. debilis,
and the Western Green Toad, B. d. insidior (Dixon
2000). Dixon (2000) draws a boundary between these
subspecies along a north-south line dividing Moore and
Potter counties from Hutchinson and Carson counties,
with B. d. insidior to the west of the line (in Potter
Co.) and B. d. debilis to the east (in Hutchinson Co.).
All green toads recorded during this survey likely
belonged to the western subspecies insidior. All ex¬
amined specimens displayed characteristics assigned to
the western subspecies by Conant and Collins (1991):
1) black lines connect many of the round, black dots
on the dorsum; 2) warts on paratoid glands and upper
eyelids have black points (Fig. 2). The latter authors
also emphasized that insidior usually occurs above 760
m above sea level (asl). All records in Lake Meredith
NRA were from 880-970 m asl.

Bufo punctatus
Red-spotted Toad

Uncommon, but relatively widespread in sandy
areas and gradient slopes in Lake Meredith NRA (only
17 recorded in 2002 and 2003). More common in
adjacent ranches above the Canadian River Breaks.
May be present in Alibates Flint Quarries NM. This
is a subfossorial species that emerges to breed and for¬
age after summer rains. Earliest record on 10 June and
latest on 4 July. The rest of the year this toad probably
spends underground in burrows and tunnels excavated
by other animals. No breeding congregations were
encountered within the parks, probably due to timing
of visits rather than unsuitability of habitat, but calling
was heard from ranches adjacent to FM 1913 in late
June 2003. In Lake Meredith NRA, this species was
only found during night road searches in Bates Canyon
and Plum Creek (Potter County), Harbor Bay, Cedar
Canyon and Bugbee Canyon (Hutchinson County),
Blue West Road (Moore County) and FM 1913. Usu¬
ally only 0-2/night, but 10 on 18 June 2003.

Bufo woodhousii woodhousii
Woodhouse’s Toad

By far, the most conspicuous, widespread, and
common amphibian in Lake Meredith NRA and

Alibates Flint Quarries NM. Occurs in riparian and
sandy areas, gradient slopes, and marshes. Breeding
congregations were recorded in Bugbee Canyon, Cedar
Canyon, Sanford Marsh (Hutchinson County), Plum
Creek boat ramp and extensive marshes in the Canadian
River Valley between Plum Creek and Bates Canyon
boat ramps, and at Bonita Creek (Potter County).
Probably also breeds in ephemeral pools and puddles
elsewhere in the valley, and along Big Blue Creek in
Lake Meredith NRA. Outside of breeding season, it
emerges on humid and rainy nights; it frequently for¬
ages on paved and unpaved roads in Bates, McBride,
Spring, and Bugbee canyons, Plum Creek, Mullinaw
Crossing, Blue West, Big Blue Creek Valley, Harbor
Bay Rd., Alibates Flint Quarries NM, Cas Johnson Rd.
and FM 1913, and some were road-killed. Earliest
records: 16 March (2003) and 24April (2002). Calling
at Sanford Marsh from late April to ca. 20 June with
the peak of breeding activity in late May. Juveniles
observed from June, but most commonly in September.
Probably retreats underground in late September (latest
record on 23 September 2002).

Scaphiopus couchii
Couch’s Spadefoot

Common and widespread, though cryptic and
difficult to detect due to subfossorial habits. Remains
underground in burrows and tunnels throughout the
year, emerging briefly to breed and forage following
the arrival of summer rains. Earliest record on 10 June
and latest on 9 August. Onset of breeding follows sum¬
mer rainfall. Only three breeding congregations were
recorded: in a roadside ditch in Bates Canyon (Potter
County) on 13 June 2002, on a flooded asphalt road in
Fritch on 18 June 2003, and in a flooded section of a dirt
road in the borrow area east of North Canyon (Hutchin¬
son County) on 20 June 2003. Probably breeds in other
ephemeral pools, as they become available. Frequent
on paved and unpaved roads following rains or even
light drizzle. At least 25 were recorded during roadside
surveys in Bates Canyon, McBride Canyon, Cas John¬
son Road (Potter County), Sanford-Yake, Harbor Bay,
Bugbee Canyon (Hutchinson County), and FM 1913
between Blue West Road and Big Blue Creek bridge
(Moore County). Likely occurs throughout sandy parts
and gradient slopes of the Lake Meredith NRA and in
Alibates Flint Quarries NM.

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

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Figure 2. Western Green Toad (Bufo debilis insidior ) from Bates Canyon, Lake Meredith NRA, Potter
County. Photo by Michael Patrikeev.

Spea bombifrons
Plains Spadefoot

Uncommon. Only 6 records during the two-year
study (one in 2002 and five in 2003), with only four
within Lake Meredith NRA proper. More common on
private ranches above the Canadian River Breaks, e.g.,
>150 collected east of Stinnett in 1950 (TNHC-UTMM
collection). This is a subfossorial species emerging
to breed and forage following onset of summer rains
(13-20 June during this study). This species may spend
less time on the surface than Scaphiopus couchii. No
breeding congregations found in the parks, but this spe¬
cies was heard calling from private ranches adjacent to
FM 1913 in Moore County northwest from Lake Mer¬
edith NRA on 18 June 2003. Found during night road
searches in Bates Canyon (Potter County) on 13 June
2002 and 18 June 2003, in Blue West (Moore County)
on 18 June 2003, and in Spring Canyon (Hutchinson
County) on 20 June 2003. Also, two recorded along
FM 1913 between Blue West Road and Big Blue Creek
Bridge on 18 June 2003.

Ran a blairi
Plains Leopard Frog

Uncommon and sparsely distributed in Lake
Meredith NRA. Does not form large choruses and
perhaps overlooked in some areas. Confined to marsh
and riparian habitats. Recorded at Sanford Marsh,
Bugbee Creek, and Harbor Bay (Hutchinson County),
and Mullinaw Crossing, Plum Creek, Chicken Creek,
and Bates Canyon boat ramp area (Potter County). R.
O’Kennon (pers. comm.) reported this species from
Big Blue Creek (Moore County), and a specimen from
Fritch Fortress is in WTAMU collection. No more than
five or six seen or heard per location. Calling from
late April (25th) to at least mid-June (14th). Juveniles
recorded at Mullinaw Crossing on 20 September.

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Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Ran a catesbeiana
Bullfrog

Uncommon and sparsely distributed throughout
Lake Meredith NRA. Associated with marsh and small,
deep ponds. Recorded at only three sites: Sanford
Marsh and Bugbee Canyon (Hutchinson County), and
Bonita Creek (Potter County). Vocal activity recorded
at Sanford Marsh and Bonita Creek from 22 April to 2
August. No more than three individuals were heard or
seen at any single site in 2002 and 2003. Two tadpoles
collected at Sanford Marsh on 28 April 2002 are in
WTAMU collection (15115 and 15116).

CLASS REPTILIA
ORDER TESTUDINES

Turtles were caught in turtle traps, observed bask¬
ing on rocks, logs, or emergent vegetation, encountered
while driving and walking on paved and unpaved roads,
and while walking cross-country. One Ornate Box
Turtle was found under a coverboard.

Family Chelydridae
Chelydra serpentina serpentina
Common Snapping Turtle

Uncommon or under-recorded semiaquatic spe¬
cies. Although it was only found in Sanford Marsh
(Hutchinson County) it likely occurs in other marshes
bordering the Canadian River and in Lake Meredith.
Five were caught in two turtle traps in Sanford Marsh
on 6 September 2002. The largest measured 36.8 cm
(carapace length) and weighed 10 kg. Three others
measured 20.3-31.1 cm long (carapace) and weighed
1.1-4.9 kg. This species was rare at Bugbee Ranch in
1950: only one record (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).

Family Kinosternidae
Kinosternon flavescens flavescens
Yellow Mud Turtle

Uncommon or under-recorded aquatic species.
This turtle rarely leaves water to bask in the open
(Conant and Collins 1991). Not caught in turtle traps.
Only four records from this study (three in Lake Mer¬

edith NRA). Two found in pools in a drying section
of the Canadian River upstream from Mullinaw Cross¬
ing (Potter County) on 3 June 2003, one on land near
Sanford Marsh (Hutchinson County) on 18 September
2002, and one east of Sanford-Yake alongside FM 687
(also Hutchinson County) on 18 June 2002. A speci¬
men from Coetus Creek is in the WTAMU collection.
Probably occurs throughout the Canadian River Valley
including adjacent marshes and may occur in Lake
Meredith. Fifteen were collected at Bugbee Ranch
(Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).

Family Emydidae
Terrapene ornata ornata

Ornate Box Turtle

Common. Most frequently encountered turtle
in both parks (> 40 records). It was also common
at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay
1955), but rare at Mansfield Ranch in 1974 (Scudday
and Scudday 1975). This is a mostly terrestrial turtle
although occasionally it ventures into pools and mud
puddles. Inhabits sandy areas, gradient slopes, borrow
and riparian habitats throughout the area. Observed
in Rosita Meadows, Bates Canyon, McBride Canyon,
Mullinaw Crossing, Dolomite Point grasslands, Plum
Creek, Alibates Flint Quarries NM, Cas Johnson Road
(Potter County), Sanford-Yake, North End grasslands
(Hutchinson County), and Blue West (Moore County).
Frequently seen walking on paved and unpaved roads
where some were road-killed (four roadkills recorded).
Two dead turtles of this species were found in a vicin¬
ity of a foul-smelling gas well, and might have been
overwhelmed by toxic fumes. One discovered under
a chipboard. Emerges from hibernation in late April
(22-25). Active throughout the summer with latest
record on 7 October.

Track emys scripta elegans
Red-eared Slider

Common locally in marshes of the Canadian
River and bays of Lake Meredith. As many as 36 ob¬
served basking in Sanford Marsh on 29 March 2002.
Nine caught in two turtle traps at the same location
6-9 September 2002. Observed basking in Bugbee
Bay and at Cedar Canyon boat ramp. Likely occurs in

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

9

other marshes, bays, and in the Canadian River in Lake
Meredith NRA. Sliders caught at Sanford Marsh (n=9)
measured 17.5-26.7 cm (carapace length) and weighed
393-1,570 g (average 22.7 cm and 1,006 g). Latest
record on 14 November 2003 (Sanford Marsh).

ORDER SQUAMATA
SUBORDER LACERTILIA

Six species were recorded during this study, and
two additional species are known from collections.
All but one species were readily found on cross-coun¬
try hikes and seen while driving paved and unpaved
roads. Four species were found under rocks, and three
under coverboards (both chipboards and roofing tin).
Use of drift fences might result in capture of species
undetected in this study.

Family Crotaphytidae
Crotaphytus collaris collaris
Eastern Collared Lizard

Uncommon, but widespread (14 records). Prob¬
ably under-recorded. Less common than the Prairie
Lizard, Texas Horned Lizard, and Prairie Racerun-
ner. In 1950, 65 specimens were collected at Bugbee
Ranch (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955), and this species
was common at Mansfield Ranch in 1974 (Scudday
and Scudday 1975). Inhabits rocky slopes, and less
frequently sandy and borrow areas. Usually found
by turning rocks, but three were under coverboards
(both chipboards and roofing tin). This species was
also observed on paved and unpaved roads. Recorded
at Bultaco Hill, McBride Canyon, Bates Canyon,
Plum Creek, Devil’s Canyon, Alibates Flint Quarries
NM (Potter County), Bugbee Canyon, North Canyon
(Hutchinson County), and Blue West (Moore County).
Slightly more common in Blue West and Bates Canyon
than elsewhere in the study area. Observed in Alibates
Flint Quarries NM as early as 4 April (2003). Most
conspicuous in late May-early June (roughly between
21 May and 1 June) which probably coincides with
breeding season. Latest records were in mid-August,
although this species may remain active into Septem¬
ber. Immature lizards were observed near Alibates
Flint Quarries NM on 28 April 2002, in Plum Creek
Canyon on 2 May 2002, and in Bates Canyon on 10
August 2001.

Family Phrynosomatidae
Phry nosoma cor nut urn
Texas Horned Lizard

Listed as a species of concern in Texas, but
common and widespread in the study area (46 records
including 15 in Lake Meredith NRA and three in Ali¬
bates Flint Quarries NM). More common in ranches
bordering the study area, e.g., 10 along FM1913 be¬
tween Fourways and Big Blue Creek (Moore County)
on 13 July 2003, 10 (total) along Cas Johnson and
McBride roads (Potter County), and along FM 3395 in
the vicinity of Bugbee (Hutchinson County). In 1950,
42 were collected from Bugbee Ranch (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955). In Lake Meredith NRA and Alibates
Flint Quarries NM, this species is more conspicuous
on paved roads, but some were found in gradient
slopes, sandy areas, in draws, on unpaved roads, and
in previously burned areas, e.g., in Bates Canyon,
Plum Creek Canyon, Mullinaw Crossing, Alibates Flint
Quarries NM (Potter County), and Blue West (Moore
County). R. O’Kennon observed one in Spring Canyon
(Hutchinson County). This species is very cryptic and
often remains motionless if approached, making it dif¬
ficult to see. Thus it was likely overlooked in suitable
habitat elsewhere. More frequently seen on roads in
Bates Canyon and Blue West where the most roadkills
occurred (four and three, respectively). Two roadkills
deposited with WTAMU collection (15112 and 15113).
This species becomes conspicuous in mid to late April
(earliest records on 13 April 2003 and 28 April 2002)
and remains active through the summer. Latest record
on 20 September. Juveniles recorded from 15 May
through 20 September. Those recorded earlier in the
summer likely overwintered. At present populations
in both parks and the adjacent ranches appears to be
healthy. Road mortality is probably significant (espe¬
cially along FM roads). The construction of new paved
roads in the parks should be avoided to prevent further
vehicle-induced mortality.

Phrynosoma modestum
Roundtail Homed Lizard

Very cryptic or very rare. Not observed during
the present study. Reported by Philips (1989) and a
specimen was collected near Blue West marina at Lake
Meredith, Moore County in 1987 (WTAMU collec¬
tion). Also known from Potter County (Dixon 2000).

10

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Sceloporus consobrinus (= Sceloporus undulatus
consobrinus and S. undulatus garmani )

Prairie Lizard

Common and widespread (>50 records in 2002-
OS). Inhabits sandhills, sandflats, borrow areas (e.g.,
often in areas overgrown with honey mesquite), gra¬
dient slopes, and riparian woodlands throughout the
parks. Recorded in Rosita Meadows, Bates Canyon,
McBride Canyon, Dolomite Point grasslands, Plum
Creek, Mullinaw Crossing, Alibates Flint Quarries NM
(Potter County), Sanford-Yake, North Canyon, Spring
Canyon, North End grasslands (Hutchinson County),
and Blue West (Moore County). This species was found
on the ground, under rocks, in shrubs and trees, and one
under a coverboard. Emerges earlier and remains active
longer than other lizards in the study area. In 2002,
observed in Alibates Flint Quarries NM as early as 16
March, and at Cedar Canyon as late as 13 November.
Three records of juveniles in 2002: in Spring Canyon
on 6 September, at Alibates Flint Quarries NM on 10
September, and in North End grasslands on 22 October.
One Prairie Lizard collected in Hutchinson County was
deposited with WTAMU collection (15110).

Taxonomic Note. —According to Conant and
Collins (1991) and Dixon (2000) two subspecies of
S. undulatus inhabit the Texas Panhandle: Northern
Prairie Lizard ( S. u. garmani ) and Southern Prairie
Lizard (S. u. consobrinus). Newest sources (Collins
and Taggart 2002) split prairie and fence lizards, and
combine S. u. garmani and S. u. consobrinus into the
Prairie Lizard Sceloporus consobrinus. Dixon (2000)
draws a boundary between consobrinus and garmani
along the north-south line dividing Moore and Potter
counties on the west side from Hutchinson and Carson
counties to the east. However, the division between
the two subspecies is probably not that simplistic and
may involve elevation gradient and possibly habitat
differentiation. Specimens from TNHC and UTA
collections that were collected in Hutchinson County
were labeled S. undulatus whereas Fouquette and
Lindsay (1955) recorded all 38 specimens from Bug-
bee Ranch as garmani. In this study, Prairie Lizards
from Sanford-Yake (Hutchinson County) were more
similar to garmani as described in Conant and Collins
(1991): The light longitudinal stripes are bold and
usually clearcut. Dark dorsal markings, prominent in
other subspecies, are reduced to spots bordering the

light dorsolateral stripe. In males, two long, narrow,
light blue patches, one at each side of the belly, are
bordered medially with black and well separated from
each other. Throat markings are absent or consist of
two small, widely separated blue patches (Fig. 3).
Individuals from Moore and Potter counties were not
closely examined, and it is possible that consobrinus
occurs in the parks also. Perhaps the more practical
approach is to follow Collins and Taggart (2002) and
treat both forms as Sceloporus consobrinus.

Family Teiidae

Cnemidophorus gularis gularis
Texas Spotted Whiptail

Rare or extirpated. Not recorded in 2002-03.
WTAMU collection contains a specimen from Lake
Meredith NRA (Potter County) collected in 1979 and
another one from Fritch (also in Potter County) in 1967.
This lizard may still occur in the study area, although it
is a conspicuous species elsewhere (pers. observ.) and
thus unlikely overlooked during the two year study.
Fouquette and Lindsay (1955) did not find it at Bugbee
Ranch in 1950, and there are no records from Mansfield
Ranch (Scudday and Scudday 1975).

Cnemidophorus sexlineatus viridis
Prairie Racerunner

Common and widespread in suitable habitats
throughout the parks (> 50 records). Inhabits sandhills,
sandflats, valley bottoms, and riparian woodlands.
Observed in Rosita Meadows, Bonita Creek, Mullinaw
Crossings, McBride Canyon, Bates Canyon, Dolomite
Point grasslands, Plum Creek, Alibates Flint Quarries
NM (Potter County), Sanford-Yake, east of Bugbee,
North End grasslands (Hutchinson County) and Blue
West (Moore County). Emerges around mid-April:
earliest records on 13 April 2003 and 17 April 2002.
Remains active through August. Juveniles recorded on
17 April and 19 May. A juvenile collected at Rosita
Meadows is in WTAMU collection (No. 15111). This
species was also very common at Bugbee Ranch in
1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955) and at Mansfield
Ranch in 1974 (Scudday and Scudday 1975).

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

11

Figure 3. Prairie Lizard (Sceloporus consobrinus = S. undulatus garmani) from Sanford-
Yake, Lake Meredith NRA, Hutchinson County. Dorsal (a) and ventral (b) views. Photo
by Michael Patrikeev.

Cnemidophorus tesselatus
Common Checkered Whiptail

Uncommon species (eight records in 2002, none
in 2003) mostly found in rocky slopes and along draws.
One record from a prescribed burn site on sandflats
(Bates Canyon). Other sightings were from Alibates
Flint Quarries NM (3), Blue West (2), Plum Creek,
and Cedar Canyon. Specimens from Bugbee Canyon
(Hutchinson County), Bonita Creek and Chimney
Hollow (Potter County) are in WTAMU collection.
Unisexual species, young develop from unfertilized
eggs (Conant and Collins 1991). No juveniles recorded
during this study, but one immature observed in Blue
West on 1 June. Dixon (2000) does not show this spe¬
cies in Moore County, and thus the records from Blue
West might be the first for that county. Interestingly,
Fouquette and Lindsay (1955) did not find Common
Checkered Whiptail at Bugbee Ranch in 1950, although

it was common at Mansfield Ranch in 1974 (Scudday
and Scudday 1975).

Family Scincidae
Eumeces obsoletus
Great Plains Skink

Common and widespread (16 records). Subfosso-
rial habits of this species make it less conspicuous than
other common lizards. Usually found by overturning
rocks in gradient slopes, sandflats, and borrow areas.
The species was found under coverboards (chipboards)
only in the second year of the study (four records).
Juveniles were uncovered from under fallen bark,
rocks, but also observed on paved roads. Recorded
only from Bates Canyon, Alibates Flint Quarries NM
(Potter County), Sanford-Yake, North Canyon, Bugbee
Canyon, North End grasslands (Hutchinson County),

12

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

and Blue West (Moore County), but likely overlooked
in suitable habitats elsewhere in the study area. Earliest
records on 18 April 2003 and 23 April 2002. Juveniles
probably hatch in early July when more than five were
recorded in Alibates Flint Quarries NM and Bates
Canyon (7-15 July). Sixty specimens were collected at
Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and Findsay 1955);
not found at Mansfield Ranch during a brief survey in
1974 (Scudday and Scudday 1975).

SUBORDER SERPENTES

Eighteen species were recorded during the 2002-
03 study, and four additional species are known from
museum records. The most efficient methods of de¬
tecting snakes were, by far, turning rocks and debris,
and night road searches; many also were recorded
during daytime cross-country hikes. Only two species
(Western Coachwhip and Prairie Ringneck Snake) were
found under coverboards.

Family Leptotyphlopidae
Leptotyphlops dulcis dissectus
New Mexico Blind Snake

Rarely encountered fossorial species. Likely
common, but difficult to detect due to its subterranean
habits (>45 collected from Bugbee Ranch in 1950; Fou¬
quette and Lindsay 1955). Only three records during
this study (all from Potter County). Found by overturn¬
ing rocks: two on rocky slopes in McBride Canyon on
1 and 4 May 2002, and one in a draw in Alibates Flint
Quarries NM on 25 May 2003. One specimen was
deposited with WTAMU collection (No. 15109).

Family Colubridae
Arizona elegans elegans
Kansas Glossy Snake

Uncommon (or under-recorded) nocturnal snake.
Only three records in 2002-03, all found on paved roads
during night searches: in Bates Canyon (Potter County)
on 28 April 2002; on Plum Creek Road just outside
of Lake Meredith NRA boundary (Potter County) on

2 June 2002; and on FM 1913 east of Big Blue Creek
bridge (Moore County) on 7 June 2003. The two lat¬
ter records came on warm nights preceded by light
rain or drizzle. Six additional specimens in WTAMU
collection, e.g., from Alibates Flint Quarries NM (Pot¬
ter County) and the vicinity of Sanford (Hutchinson
County). According to Werler and Dixon (2000) this
burrowing snake is confined to sandy or loamy soils. At
Bugbee Ranch, seven of 12 collected specimens were
found in deep sands (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).

Coluber constrictor flaviventris
Yellowbelly Racer

Rare or perhaps uncommon species with only
one record in the 2002-03 study. The snake was found
under a garbage bin lid in a grassy area next to Sanford
Marsh (Hutchinson County). One specimen collected
“0.5 mi. W of Lake Meredith” in Moore County in
1987 (WTAMU collection). This species may occur
throughout the Canadian River Valley in Lake Meredith
NRA, but difficult to detect in dense-grass riverine
habitats. Twenty-five were collected at Bugbee Ranch
in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955) in a wetter than
average year.

Diadophis punctatus arnyi
Prairie Ringneck Snake

Rare or overlooked due to its subfossorial habits.
Only three records in 2002-03: under a rock in a borrow
area at Sanford-Yake (Hutchinson County) on 15 April
2002; under a coverboard (chipboard) in riparian area
at Rosita Meadows (Potter County) on 21 and 22 April
2003; a juvenile in a thick clump of grass in sandflats
at the North End (Hutchinson County) on 22 October
2002. All records were made in mid-spring and autumn.
This species probably spends the hottest months of
the year underground. WTAMU collection contains
specimens from Fritch Fortress, McBride Canyon,
and Plum Creek (Potter County). Twenty-seven were
collected at Bugbee Ranch by Fouquette and Lindsay
(1955) who noted “large concentrations” under woody
debris in the floodplain.

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

13

Elaphe entoryi emoryi
Northern Plains Rat Snake

Uncommon or rare. Almost exclusively noctur¬
nal snake hiding under rocks, logs, and other surface
objects (Werler and Dixon 2000). Only two records
during this study: an adult under a rock in the upland
part of the Plum Creek area (Potter County) on 28
April 2003, and a juvenile on McBride Road (Potter
County) just outside the Lake Meredith NRA during a
night survey on 10 June 2002. Three specimens from
Alibates Flint Quarries NM, Plum Creek, and Bonita
Creek are in WTAMU collection. A large collection
of reptiles from Bugbee Ranch, Hutchinson County,
contains only eight specimens of emoryi (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955).

Heterodon nasicus nasicus
Plains Hognose Snake

Rare. Reported during this study by R. O’Kennon
(pers. comm.) who saw one in McBride Canyon in late
April 2002. One was collected in “Alibates Canyon
at ranger station” in 1994 (WTAMU collection) and
eight at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay
1955).

Heterodon platirhinos
Eastern Hognose Snake

Rare or extirpated. The eastern hognose snake
was collected at Plum Creek and Bonita Creek in 1979
and 1986 (three specimens in WTAMU collection).
Nineteen were collected by Fouquette and Lindsay
(1955) at Bugbee Ranch. According to R. Kazmaier
(pers. comm.) both hognose snake species have expe¬
rienced dramatic declines in the Texas Panhandle and
adjacent areas, and might have disappeared from some
sites including the study area.

Hypsiglena torquata jani
Texas Night Snake

Rare or under-recorded nocturnal species. Only
two records during this study: one adult under a rock
on a gradient rocky slope in McBride Canyon (Potter

County) on 1 May 2002; and a juvenile on paved sur¬
face of FM 687 at the North End (Hutchinson County)
during a night search on 12 July 2003. Four specimens
from Bugbee Canyon (Hutchinson County) and Plum
Creek (Potter County) are in WTAMU collection. Nine
were collected at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955), and one at Mansfield Ranch in 1974
(Scudday and Scudday 1975).

Lampropeltis getula splendida
Desert Kingsnake

Only one record of this nocturnal species: a road-
killed individual by the ranger station in Sanford-Yake
(Hutchinson County) on 3 November 2002. Subse¬
quent searches in 2003 failed to locate more individuals,
so it is probably uncommon or rare. Two specimens
in WTAMU collection: one labeled “Lake Meredith,
Hutchinson County” and another “Alibates Park.” Not
recorded from Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955).

Masticophis flagellum testaceus
Western Coachwhip

Common and widespread (> 25 records). Along
with Crotalus atrox this is the most frequently encoun¬
tered snake in the study area. Occurs in sandflats, sand¬
hills, gradient rocky slopes, borrow and riparian areas
throughout the parks. Often seeks refuge in burrows
and tunnels excavated by mammals. Emerges around
mid-April: earliest records on 17 April 2003 and 23
April 2002. Active throughout the summer until at
least late September. Frequently seen during daylight
hours. Observed basking on paved roads (especially
in late April-early May and September), and several
were found road-killed. Only one juvenile recorded,
a roadkill on Cas Johnson Road on 15 May 2003.
Western Coachwhip was the only snake found under
roofing tin coverboards (three records). Recorded from
Rosita Meadows, Plum Creek, McBride Canyon, Bates
Canyon, Alibates Flint Quarries NM, Cas Johnson
Road (Potter County), Sanford-Yake, North End by
FM 687, North Canyon (Hutchinson County), Blue
West and FM 1913 (Moore County). Probably occurs
elsewhere in the study area. Two roadkills deposited
with WTAMU collection (Nos. 15106 and not yet as-

14

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

signed). This species was very common at Bugbee
Ranch in 1950; 53 specimens were collected (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955).

Nerodia erythrogaster transversa
Blotched Water Snake

Rare or uncommon (2 records). One at Mullinaw
Creek (Potter County) on 29 May 2002 (R. O’Kennon,
pers. comm.), and a badly damaged roadkill by Sanford
Marsh (Hutchinson County) on 13 July 2002. Four
specimens are in WTAMU collection: McBride Can¬
yon (2), Bonita Creek, and below Sanford Dam. Only
one specimen was collected at Bugbee Ranch in 1950
despite special efforts to find this species (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955). Small unidentified water snakes
( Nerodia ) observed in Sanford Marsh in April-May
2002 might have been of this species. Probably occurs
in small numbers throughout the Canadian River Val¬
ley in the study area including in-flowing creeks and
associated marshes.

Nerodia rhombifer rhombifer
Diamondback Water Snake

Rare or extirpated. One specimen collected at
Bonita Creek (Potter County) in 1979 (WTAMU col¬
lection), but not observed since. Few records from
elsewhere in the Canadian River Valley in Potter and
Hutchinson counties (Werler and Dixon 2000). Not
among species collected at Bugbee Ranch in 1950
(Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).

Pituophis catenifer sayi
Bullsnake

Uncommon in riparian habitats and sandy ar¬
eas. Infrequently seen on paved roads where several
roadkills were recorded. Only two of eight records
during this study were from the parks proper: one in
cottonwood woodland off Dolomite Point Road on 12
June 2002, and another under fallen bark in a sandy area
with few dead cottonwoods in Alibates Flint Quarries
NM on 7 July 2002 (both sites in Potter County). Six
specimens from Alibates Flint Quarries NM, Bonita
Creek, and the Sanford area are in WTAMU collec¬
tion. This species may be more common in adjacent

private ranches, e.g., those bordering Plum Creek Road
(two roadkills and one live), and FM 1913 between
Fourways and Plum Creek Road (one roadkilled and
one live). Fouquette and Lindsay’s (1955) study at
Bugbee Ranch produced 11 specimens. Emerges in
late April, e.g., a roadkill on US 287 north of the Cana¬
dian River bridge on 23 April 2003. A juvenile found
at the intersection of FM 1913 and Plum Creek Road
(Moore County) on 12 July 2003, and another in Fritch
(Hutchinson County) on 15 September 2003.

Rhinocheilus lecontei tesselatus

Texas Longnose Snake

Infrequently encountered burrowing snake (six
records). Probably more widespread than indicated
by this study. Five found on paved roads during night
road searches (usually after rain): Plum Creek Road
(Potter County) on 2 June 2002, Harbor Bay Road
(Hutchinson County) on 10 June 2002, Blue West Road
on 5 May 2003, at intersection of the latter with FM
1913 on 12 June 2003, and at intersection of FM 1913
and Cig Road on 16 June 2003 (the last three records
in Moore County). The sixth was found under a rock
in Alibates Flint Quarries NM (Potter County) on 21
May 2002. Not shown for Moore County by Dixon
(2000) and Werler and Dixon (2000), thus these records
are likely new. Only four recorded at Bugbee Ranch
in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).

Sonora semiannulata
Ground Snake

Relatively common (12 records) and probably
widespread, however subfossorial and found on sur¬
face during a very short period in spring (Werler and
Dixon 2000). In Lake Meredith NRA, found under
rocks on slopes and in canyons from 27 April through
26 May; a dead specimen was found on a trail on 2
June. Lake Meredith NRA records are from Blue West
(Moore County), Bates Canyon and adjacent areas, and
Plum Creek (Potter County). Four specimens from
McBride Canyon are in WTAMU collection. Likely
present in Alibates Flint Quarries NM. Two of five
color forms recorded in Lake Meredith NRA: grayish
with a red longitudinal stripe, and all red. Fifty-five
were collected at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955).

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

15

Tantilla nigriceps
Plains Blackhead Snake

One record during the study period, but this
species is subfossorial and probably was overlooked.
The snake was found under bark that had fallen off a
dead cottonwood in Alibates Flint Quarries NM (Pot¬
ter County) on 26 June 2002. A search through bark
shed by other dead cottonwoods in the vicinity failed
to produce additional individuals. Two were collected
at Plum Creek (Potter County) in 1979 (WTAMU col¬
lection) and 12 at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955).

Thamnophis marcianus marcianus
Marcy’s Checkered Garter Snake

Rare or under-recorded (only one record dur¬
ing this study). One was found on Plum Creek Road
(Potter County) on 14 November 2003 by R. Kazmaier
(pers. comm.). That snake was released and not pho¬
tographed. Another was collected at Plum Creek in
1983 (WTAMU collection). This species appears to
be widely distributed throughout the central Texas
Panhandle (Werler and Dixon 2000), e.g., 10 were col¬
lected at Bugbee Ranch (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955).
It is unknown whether the lack of records in this study
indicates a decline (perhaps because of the drought) or
inadequate survey techniques.

Thamnophis sirtalis annectens
Texas Garter Snake

Rare (two records). Found only at the very north
end of Lake Meredith NRA (in Hutchinson County)
in late summer-early autumn. One critically injured
by car found in Spring Canyon on 5 September 2002
(deposited with WTAMU collection, No. 15107), and
another basking on surface of FM 687 at North End
was caught on 22 October 2002.

Taxonomic note. —Distribution and field char¬
acteristics of T. s. annectens are somewhat contro¬
versial According to Conant and Collins (1991),
this subspecies occurs in Central Texas, eastern Texas
Panhandle, and adjacent parts of Oklahoma, whereas
Dixon (2000) and Werler and Dixon (2000) show T.

s. annectens confined roughly to the Cross Timbers-
Southern Blackland Prairie ecoregion in Central Texas.
According to the latter authors, garter snakes from
the Texas Panhandle belong to a different subspecies:
Redsided Garter Snake, T. s. parietalis. However both
snakes recorded at Lake Meredith NRA exhibited field
characteristics of annectens (Fig. 4): the unusual broad,
orange, mid-dorsal stripe, and lateral stripes involving
rows 3, plus adjacent parts of rows 2 and 4 (Conant and
Collins 1991; Dixon 2000; Werler and Dixon 2000).
Fouquette and Lindsay (1955), who collected 69 speci¬
mens of Thamnophis sirtalis at Bugbee Ranch in 1950,
suggested that “in ventral and caudal counts [those]
specimens appear intermediate between annectens and
parietalis. The pattern, however, was not at all sug¬
gestive of typical parietalis ” (Fouquette and Lindsay
1955). Other experts working on garter snakes, e.g.,
J. Boundy (pers. comm.) and N. Ford (pers. comm.),
confirmed that garter snakes from this survey are T. s.
annectens. In addition, J. Boundy (pers. comm.) exam¬
ined the 60+ garter snakes collected by Fouquette and
Lindsay (1955), and found them identical to annectens
from Waco-Austin region. A garter snake labeled
“Thamnophis sirtalis ssp.” collected from the vicinity
of Borger, Hutchinson County (WTAMU collection)
also exhibits annectens characteristics. Taxonomic
status of annectens is currently under review and it may
be merged with the nominate subspecies T. s. sirtalis
(J. R. Dixon and J. Boundy, pers. comm.).

Thamnophis proximus proximus
Western Ribbon Snake

Not recorded in 2002-03. Collected at Bonita
Creek in 1979 and by the bridge on US 287 (just out¬
side the study area) in 1985 (WTAMU collection).
This species was abundant at Bugbee Ranch in 1950
where 52 specimens were collected (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955).

Tropidoclonion lineatum
Lined Snake

Not recorded in Lake Meredith NRA and Alibates
Flint Quarries NM. However, one found crossing
FM 1913 between Plum Creek and Blue West roads
(Moore County), less than 5 km from Lake Meredith

16

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Figure 4. Texas Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis annectens) from North End of Lake Meredith
NRA, Hutchinson County. Photo by Michael Patrikeev.

NRA boundary, on a rainy night of 18 June 2003.
This cryptic species may occur in the parks, although
it was surprisingly not found at Bugbee Ranch (Fou-
quette and Lindsay 1955). This species probably has
a patchy distribution in the Panhandle (Scudday and
Scudday 1975).

Family Viperidae
Crotalus atrox

Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

Common and widespread (21 records). Along
with the Western Coachwhip, this was the most fre¬
quently encountered snake in the study area. Ten were
collected at Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955). In the study area, this species inhabits
grasslands, mesquite and cottonwood woodlands in
sandy areas, gradient rocky slopes, riparian and borrow
areas. Often seeks refuge in animal burrows and natural
crevices. Frequently encountered basking on paved
roads in early mornings, during twilight hours, or after
spring rains. As a result some were road-killed (>5).
Recorded in Rosita Meadows, Bates Canyon, Dolomite

Point grasslands, Plum Creek, Alibates Flint Quarries
NM, McBride Road (Potter County), Sanford-Yake,
North Canyon, Spring Canyon (Hutchinson County),
and Blue West (Moore County). Three specimens
from Coetus Creek (Potter County) are in WTAMU
collection. Visually more common in Bates Canyon
and Alibates Flint Quarries NM (10 records). Large
specimens are rare: only three diamondbacks >1 m
long recorded, e.g., two in Sanford-Yake. Emerges in
early May (earliest records during 4-5 May in 2002-
OS) and remains active to at least the end of September
(latest record on 30 September). A hibernaculum was
reported in a tamarisk thicket near the marina at San¬
ford-Yake. Immature snakes were observed from early
May through late June.

Crotalus viridis viridis
Prairie Rattlesnake

Rare or uncommon. Not recorded from Lake
Meredith NRA and Alibates Flint Quarries NM during
this study, although three specimens from Plum Creek
and Alibates Flint Quarries NM (Potter County) col-

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

17

lected in 1979-1981 are in WTAMU collection. On 12
July 2003 one was found on the side of FM 1913 near
intersection with Blue West Road (Moore County) dur¬
ing a night survey. This record is only ca. 4 km from
the Lake Meredith NRA boundary. Likely occurs in
sandy areas and gradient slopes in the parks albeit in
small numbers. Interestingly, Fouquette and Lindsay
(1955) collected only two specimens at Bugbee Ranch
in 1950, and only one was collected at Mansfield Ranch
in 1974 (Scudday and Scudday 1975).

Potentially occurring species

In addition to the 44 species (10 species of am¬
phibians and 34 species of reptiles) detected in this
study or known from museum records, the following
13 species (3 amphibians and 10 reptiles) might also
be present on the parks.

Pseudacris clarkii , Spotted Chorus Frog.—Not
recorded in the present study, but 11 specimens
were collected in rain pools in Stinnett and vicinity,
and at Bugbee Ranch (Hutchinson County) in 1950
(TNHC-UTMM collection), e.g., ca. 15 km from the
northernmost limits of Lake Meredith NRA. Perhaps,
drier conditions in 2002-03 were unfavorable for this
species.

Spea multiplicata , New Mexico Spadefoot.—This
species is known from Hutchinson, Moore, and Potter
counties (Dixon 2000). One was collected in Borger
(Hutchinson County), only ca. 12 km east of Lake
Meredith NRA, on 3 April 1990 (WTAMU collection).
Two other specimens from the Amarillo area (Potter
County), ca. 25 km south of Lake Meredith NRA, were
collected in 1950 (TNHC-UTMM collection).

Bufo speciosus, Texas Toad.—Listed by Philips
(1989) and known from Moore and Potter counties
(Dixon 2000). One specimen was collected in Potter
County southwest of Lake Meredith NRA in 1970
(WTAMU collection).

Apalone muticus muticus , Midland Smooth
Softshell.—Recorded from Hutchinson County (Dixon
2000) and suspected in Lake Meredith NRA (Philips
1989). No specimens from Lake Meredith NRA or
vicinity were found in the examined collections.

Apalone spinifera hartwegi, Western Spiny Soft-
shell.—Known from Hutchinson and Potter counties
(Dixon 2000) and suspected in Lake Meredith NRA
(Philips 1989). A specimen in WTAMU collection was
collected in 1981 at “Dumas Highway at the Canadian
River”, i.e., most likely by the bridge on US 287, just
west of Lake Meredith NRA.

Holbrookia maculata maculata , Northern Ear¬
less Lizard.—-No 2002-03 or prior records from the
study area, but this species is known from Hutchinson,
Moore, and Potter counties (Axtell 1998, Dixon 2000),
e.g., 42 specimens from Bugbee Ranch (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955), and five specimens from the vicinity of
Amarillo (WTAMU collection). This is a species of
sandy prairies (Conant and Collins 1991) and aeolian
sands (Axtell 1998), but it also occurs in the floodplain
and rocky slopes (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955). The
Northern Earless Lizard is likely present in Lake Mer¬
edith NRA and Alibates Flint Quarries NM, but was
somehow overlooked during this study. However,
Scudday and Scudday (1975) also failed to detect this
species at Mansfield Ranch in 1974.

Cophosaurus texanus texanus, Texas Earless
Lizard.—Listed by Philips (1989), but no literature
records or museum specimens from the study area and
the vicinity. Not found at Bugbee Ranch (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955). Nearest records are from Armstrong
and Donley counties (Dixon 2000).

Utastansburianastejnegeri, Desert Side-blotched
Lizard.—Presence suspected by Philips (1989), but no
specimens or photographic records. Not found at Bug¬
bee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955), but
one was collected near Stinnett (Hutchinson County)
in 1967, and four west of US 287 in Moore County in
1978 (WTAMU collection). However, those records
were not included in Dixon (2000).

Ophisaurus attenuatus , Western Slender Glass
Lizard.—Known from Hutchinson County (Dixon
2000), but not recorded from Bugbee Ranch (Fouquette
and Lindsay 1955); also no Panhandle specimens were
located through collection reviews.

Lampropeltis calligaster calligaster. Prairie
Kingsnake.—This species occurs in Hutchinson County
(Werler and Dixon 2000) at the western fringe of its

18

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

range so perhaps it is naturally rare in this area. One
record from Bugbee Ranch in 1950 (Fouquette and
Lindsay 1955).

Lampropeltis triangulum gentilis, Central Plains
Milk Snake.—This snake is known from all three
counties (Dixon 2000; Werler and Dixon 2000). One
was collected “23 miles north of Amarillo” (WTAMU
collection), i.e., possibly within Lake Meredith NRA
or at least in close vicinity.

Thamnophis radix, Plains Garter Snake.—Two
known specimens from Hutchinson County in the
vicinity of the study area: one from Bugbee Ranch
in 1950 (Fouquette and Lindsay 1955), and one from
somewhere at Bugbee Creek in 1969 (WTAMU col¬
lection).

Sistrurus catenatus tergeminus. Western Mas-
sasauga.—This species was reported at the southwest
comer of Potter County, and in Roberts County to the
east of Hutchinson County (Werler and Dixon 2000).

Conclusions

The 2002-03 study detected most amphibian and
reptile species expected to occur in the north-central
Texas Panhandle. Absence of several species (Spot¬
ted Chorus Frog, New Mexico Spadefoot, Northern
Earless Lizard, Eastern Hognose Snake, Western Rib¬
bon Snake, etc.) detected during previous studies in
Lake Meredith NRA and Alibates Flint Quarries NM
and the vicinity might be explained by the drought in
2000-03 or inadequate sampling efforts, although it
is equally possible that some of those species are lo¬
cally extirpated. Three species (Western Green Toad,

Common Checkered Whiptail, Texas Longnose Snake)
found during this study in Moore County are likely
new records for that county. This study also suggests
adjustment of distributional boundaries of Bufo debihs
insidior and Thamnophis sirtalis annectens. Methods
employed in this study were likely insufficient to detect
all expected species. Drift fences and funnel traps are
strongly recommended for any further herpetological
studies in the area. Monitoring of the coverboard sta¬
tions should continue to determine their effectiveness
over time.

Acknowledgments

I have received valuable assistance from the fol¬
lowing individuals: Dr. R. W. Axtell, D. Benesh, Dr. R.
E. Bennetts, J. Boundy, L. Bradley, Dr. D. Cannatella,
K. B. Castro-Acosta, D. Certain, K. Davin, M. Davin,
Dr. J. R. Dixon, C. M. Duran, L. Elliott, P. Eubank, Dr.
N. Ford, M. Gailyoun, N. Gross, P. Jones, J. Karges,
Dr. R. Kazmaier, Dr. T. J. LaDuc, R. Miller, J. Munoz,
R. J. O’Kennon, Dr. G. L. Nesom, Dr. D. Perkins, W.

Philips, S. Platt, J. Rancier, R. Roegner, J. Rosales,
M. Smith, H. Sosinski, T. Stevenson, S. Strickland, B.
Sullivan, E. Tejan, R. Terry, Dr. P. Ustach, R. Vasquez,
Dr. K. Vaughn, D. Weiland, and L. Wofford. National
Park Service, Southern Plains Network provided fi¬
nancial assistance to cover the publication costs. An
anonymous reviewer made valuable suggestions that
improved this manuscript.

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

19

Literature Cited

Axtell, R. W. 1998. Holbrookia maculata. Interpretive Atlas
of Texas Lizards No. 18. Self-published. Southern
Illinois University, Edwardsville.

Collins, J. T., and T. W. Taggart. 2002. Standard common
and current scientific names for North American
amphibians, turtles, reptiles and crocodilians. Fifth
edition. The Center for North American Herpetol¬
ogy, Lawrence, Kansas.

Conant, R., and J. T. Collins. 1991. A field guide to rep¬
tiles and amphibians. Eastern and Central North
America. Houghton Mifflin Company, Boston,
Massachusetts.

Dixon, J. R. 2000. Amphibians and reptiles of Texas. Second
edition. Texas A&M University Press, College
Station.

Fouquette, M. J., and H. L. Lindsay. 1955. An ecological
survey of reptiles in parts of northwestern Texas.
Texas Journal of Science 7:402-421.

National Park Service. 2000. Study plan for biological in¬
ventories. Southern Plains Network, National Park
Service. National Park Service and the Colorado
and New Mexico Natural Heritage Programs, the
Kansas Heritage Inventory, and the Texas Conser¬
vation Data Center.

National Park Service. 2001. Draft oil and gas management
plan, Environmental Impact Statement for Lake
Meredith National Recreation Area and Alibates
Flint Quarries National Monument (Hutchinson,
Moore and Potter Counties, Texas). National Park
Service, Bureau of Reclamation (US Department
of the Interior), Washington, DC, and the Canadian
River Municipal Water Agency.

Nesom, G. L., and R. J. O’Kennon. 2005. Vascular plants
of Lake Meredith National Recreation Area and
Alibates Flint Quarries National Monument (Potter,
Moore and Hutchinson Counties, Texas): results of
a 2002 floristic inventory and related research and
reviews. Final Report to US National Park Service.
US National Park Service, Washington, DC, and
Botanical Research Institute of Texas, Ft. Worth.

Patrikeev, M. 2004. Vertebrate animals of Lake Meredith Na¬
tional Recreation Area and Alibates Flint Quarries
National Monument (Potter, Moore and Hutchinson
Counties, Texas Panhandle): results of zoological
inventory of 2001-2003. Report to US National
Park Service. US National Park Service, Wash¬
ington, DC, and Texas Conservation Data Center,
San Antonio.

Philips, J. W. 1989. Checklist of vertebrates of Lake Meredith
Recreation Area. Unpublished Report.

Scudday, J. F., and F. Scudday. 1975. A preliminary study
of the vertebrate fauna of the Upper Canadian
Breaks area. Pp.57-69 in Canadian Breaks: a
natural area survey, part VII of VIII. Division of
Natural Resources Environment, University of
Texas, Austin.

Texas Water Development Board. 2005. TWDB Data, http://
hyper20.twdb.state.tx.us/ (Accessed May 2006).

Werler, J. E., and J. R. Dixon. 2000. Texas snakes: identifica¬
tion, distribution and natural history. University of
Texas Press, Austin.

20

Occasional Papers, Museum of Texas Tech University

Address of author:

Michael Patrikeev

3 Helen Street

Dundas, Ontario L9H1N2

Canada

mpatrikeev@hotmail. com

Patrikeev—Amphibians and Reptiles of the Texas Panhandle

21

Appendix

Coordinates of locations mentioned in the text.

Alibates Flint Quarries

Bates Canyon

Big Blue Creek

Big Blue Creek bridge

Big Canyon

Blue West

Blue West Road

Bonita Creek

Borger

Bugbee Bay

Bugbee Canyon

Bultaco Hill

Cas Johnson Road

Cedar Canyon

Chicken Creek

Chimney Hollow

Coetus Creek

Devils Canyon

Dolomite Point grasslands

Dumas

Fourway s

Fritch

Fritch Fortress
Harbor Bay
McBride Canyon
Mullinaw Crossing
North Canyon
North End
Plum Creek
Plum Creek boat ramp
Rosita Meadow
Saddle Horse Canyon
Sanford Marsh
Sanford-Yake
Spring Canyon
Stinnett

35°34'53.95"N, 101 o 40'39.04 M W
35°34'24.83"N, 101°4F55.98 M W
35°42'54.75"N, 101 o 39’35.87 M W
35°43'17.20"N, 101°39'44.16 M W
35°32'12.39"N, 101 o 46'56.70 M W
35°40'47.37"N, 101 o 38'10.32"W
35°41'16.35"N, 101°40 , 11.48 M W
35°28'07.93"N, 101°4T25.56 M W
35°40'23.98"N, 101°23'30.08 M W
35°43'10.30"N, 101°35'40.89 M W
35°43'44.26"N, 101°35'42.12 M W
35°27'48.68"N, 101 o 49'42.71"W
35°33’22.56 M N, 101°40 , 52.11 M W
35°41'37.34"N, 101°34'28.62 M W
35°28'36.79 M N, 101 o 45'41.98”W
35°35'07.48"N, 101 o 40'46.84"W
35°30'11.82"N, 101°45'44.50"W
35°33'24.66"N, 101°46'14.92 M W
35°35'49.39"N, 101°40'22.40"W
35°51'46.48"N, 101°58'08.62 M W
35°41'25.51"N, 101 o 57'54.62 M W
35°38'27.07"N, 101°36'06.80"W
35°40'59.87 M N, 101 o 35'38.81 M W
35°41'52.91"N, 101°34'11.02 M W
35°32'53.49' , N, 101 o 44'14.99”W
35°31'47.36"N, 101°45'37.96 M W
35°43'28.06"N, 101 o 34'36.81 M W
35°44'05.15"N, 101°33'17.92 M W
35°36'05.57"N, 101°44'44.41 M W
35°35'58.28"N, 101 o 42'59.06 M W
35°28'04.95 M N, 101°50 , 40.02”W
35°29'38.89"N, 101°47 , 31.60"W
35°43'01.61 M N, 101°32'48.88"W
35°41'39.37"N, 101°33 , 30.84"W
35°43'40.25 M N, 101°33'14.61"W
35°49'34.48"N, 101°26'34.50 M W

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