Middle American Gopher Snake
Pituophis deppei
A Mexican highland gopher snake species with a striking pattern of dark blotches on a pale background, found in the central plateau region.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.0-1.8 m (3.5-6 ft)
- Range
- Central Mexico
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Overview
The Middle American Gopher Snake, sometimes considered a distinct species separate from the North American Pituophis catenifer complex, occurs on the central Mexican plateau. It occupies grassland and scrubland habitats at moderate to high elevation.
It is a non-venomous constrictor that helps control rodent populations in agricultural and natural landscapes.
How to identify it
- Pale gray, tan, or yellowish background with well-defined dark brown to black blotches
- Blotches often bordered with darker outlines, giving a bold contrasted look
- Keeled scales
- Narrow head, round pupils
- Larger and more heavily built than many sympatric colubrids
Habitat & range
Found in grasslands, scrub, and agricultural areas of the central Mexican plateau, typically at moderate to high elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily diurnal, most active during warmer daylight hours. Feeds on rodents and other small vertebrates via constriction. Displays defensive hissing and body flattening when threatened. Lays eggs during the warmer months.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Middle American Gopher Snake venomous?
No, it is non-venomous.
Where does it live?
The central Mexican plateau, in grassland and scrub habitats.
What does it eat?
Rodents and other small vertebrates, captured by constriction.
Is it closely related to North American gopher snakes?
Yes, it belongs to the same genus, Pituophis, though it is sometimes treated as a separate species.
Middle American Gopher Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Middle American Gopher Snake.
