Confusing Species
There are a number of other boldly blotched snakes in eastern Canada, notably the Northern Water Snake, Milk Snake and the Fox Snake. None of these snakes have the upturned snout. The Western Hognose is similar but is only found on the prairies in Canada. It has dark blotches on the underside and the snout is more sharply upturned.

Distribution
The Eastern Hognose Snake is limited to southern Ontario in Canada. In the US, it is found as far south as Florida and Texas.

Habitat
The Eastern Hognose Snake is found in sandy habitats, particularly near the shorelines of the Great Lakes. It can occur in open woodlands, particularly oak or pine, but rarely far from water.

Reproduction
Mating generally occurs in the spring. Females lay an average of 20 eggs (up to 61) in June or July. The eggs are laid in sandy soil, under rocks, or even in rotting logs. They hatch in about two months and the young are approximately 20 cm in length. Eastern Hognose Snakes mature after their second winter.

Natural history
The Eastern Hognose Snake has a very mild venom which may help to immobilize the toads and frogs it feeds upon. When disturbed it will raise its head, spread its neck like a cobra, hiss and even strike, although generally with the mouth closed. If it is disturbed again it may play dead by rolling onto its back with its mouth wide open and tongue hanging out. This behaviour might deter some predators who only eat living prey. The snake is not immobile at this point because if it is turned over onto its belly it will flip over onto its back again. Hognose Snakes generally hibernate alone underground or in logs. The upturned snout is used for digging. Individuals can live up to 7 years in the wild.

Conservation Concerns
Many individuals have been killed by people because of their defensive behaviour. Their habitat around the Great Lakes is threatened because of shoreline development. Although populations are considered secure in the US, it has been designated Vulnerable in Canada by the COSEWIC.