Black Pine Snake
Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi
A rare, uniformly dark subspecies of pine snake found in the longleaf pine forests of the Gulf Coast states.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-2.1 m (4-7 ft)
- Range
- Southern Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana
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Overview
The black pine snake is a striking, mostly uniform blackish subspecies of pine snake restricted to longleaf pine forests in the southeastern Gulf Coast states. It is considered threatened due to significant loss of its fire-maintained pine savanna habitat.
Like other pine snakes, it is a capable burrower and produces a loud hissing display when threatened, but it is entirely nonvenomous and poses no danger to people.
How to identify it
- Nearly uniform dark brown to black coloration as adults
- Juveniles may show faint blotching that darkens with age
- Small head relative to a stout body; pointed snout
- Keeled scales
- Round pupils
Habitat & range
Restricted to longleaf pine savannas and sandy uplands maintained by periodic fire in southern Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal, digs burrows and shelters in stump holes and root channels. Preys on rodents and other small vertebrates by constriction. Displays loud hissing and inflates its body when threatened. Lays eggs in underground burrows in summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the black pine snake endangered?
It is considered a species of conservation concern and is protected in parts of its range due to habitat loss.
Is it venomous?
No, it is completely nonvenomous.
What habitat does it require?
It depends on longleaf pine savanna habitat maintained by regular fire, which has become increasingly rare.
Black Pine Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Black Pine Snake.
