Some individuals are olive, brown, or black with no blotches. Belly light or dark, but underside of tail always lighter than belly. Defensive behavior resembles that of western hognose snake. If righted, it rolls over again. Mates in spring and lays 8-20 eggs in June, July, or August, the number depending on size of the female.
Food consists mainly of frogs and toads.
Main predators are raptors and other snakes. Rare in Grand Prairie.