Leioheterodon modestus

Leioheterodon modestus primarily eats amphibians as well as other reptiles,^[4][10] notably the rainbow frog (Scaphiophryne gottlebei).^[11] Though there is not a lot of information known about their diet in the wild, captive individuals are known to have a more varied diet than North American hognoses (Heterodon spp.), which are more restricted to amphibians. In captivity, L. modestus are known to eat toads, frogs, lizards, small mammals, and even the eggs of other reptiles.^[12]

These snakes are oviparous (egg-laying).^[13]

Leioheterodon modestus is a smooth-scaled snake with a slightly pointed, projecting snout. Their eyes are large with round pupils.^[14] Hatchlings average between 6–12 in (15–30 cm), and adults average around 3–5 ft (91–152 cm) in length.^[4] They are named after the Latin word modestus, meaning "modest", for their plain, pale yellow-brown coloration.^[13] The mineralized skeleton of this species of snake contains apatite.^[15] The three species within the genus Leioheterodon are morphologically similar, and Leioheterodon spp. have been known to do elaborate defensive displays when threatened by predators; a common behavior in many hognose species.^[16] These defensive displays include hissing, flattening of the neck, feign striking and death feigning.^[17] Adults display sexual dimorphism between males and females, however this is very subtle with males just being slightly larger. This is because adult males perform male-male combat, where two males try to pin each other down in a ritualistic behavior for dominance of an area or for mating rights with a female.^[18]

This species is rear-fanged and considered mildly venomous, although they are not medically significant to humans (with anaphylaxis always being an exception if someone is allergic). Generally they are harmless. Their venom is only used to subdue prey, and envenomation in humans only occurs from the snake being provoked. Their dentition lacks grooved teeth or fangs for venom delivery, and the "rear-fanged" refers to the ungrooved, enlarged rear teeth (on the posterior end of the maxilla).^[19][20]