LYRE SNAKE

The Lyre Snake, scientifically known as *Trimorphodon lambda*, is a distinctive species found primarily in the southwestern United States, including the rocky, semi-arid environments around Bisbee, Arizona. This snake typically exhibits a pale brown or gray color with darker brown blotches down its back, which helps it blend seamlessly into its natural habitat. Adults usually reach a length of about two to three feet. Its diet primarily consists of small mammals, birds, and occasionally lizards, which it subdues with its mild venom, making it a rear-fanged colubrid.

A unique quality of the Lyre Snake is its ability to "climb" in shrubbery and trees, an adaptation not common among many terrestrial snakes. This climbing ability allows it to access a diverse range of prey and escape predators. In Bisbee, the presence of the Lyre Snake is important as it helps control the populations of small rodents and birds, contributing to the balance of the local ecosystem. This role is crucial in maintaining the health of the natural landscapes that are a key part of Bisbee’s natural allure.