What darker marking, besides the main blotches, aids in identifying *C. oreganus* when patterns are faint?
Answer
A darker, often zig-zag or striped line from the eye towards the jaw
Even when the primary dorsal patterns—such as diamond-shaped blotches—are highly faded, obscured, or merged due to individual variation or environmental factors, another reliable marking exists on the head region. This critical distinguishing feature is a darker line, which often appears to be zig-zagged or striped, originating near the eye and extending down toward the jaw area. Relying on this specific facial marking can be more effective for identification than assessing the overall blotch contrast, especially in arid populations where coloring blends significantly with the substrate.
Related Questions
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