Pacific Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer catenifer
A large, heavy-bodied colubrid of the Pacific coast known for its loud hiss and defensive tail-vibrating display that often leads to mistaken identity as a rattlesnake.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- Pacific coast of the United States, from Washington through California
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Pacific Gopher Snake is a subspecies of the widespread gopher snake complex, occupying much of the coastal and lowland habitat of California, Oregon, and Washington. It is one of the most commonly encountered large snakes in its range due to its adaptability to disturbed and agricultural land.
Despite its intimidating defensive display, it is entirely harmless to humans and plays an important ecological role as a rodent predator.
How to identify it
- Base color tan, yellow, or cream with dark brown or black blotches down the back
- Blotches often fuse near the tail into bands
- Keeled scales giving a rough texture
- Head narrow and only slightly distinct from neck, small eyes with round pupils
- Often confused with rattlesnakes due to loud hissing and tail vibration, but lacks a rattle and has a slender tail tip
Habitat & range
Found in grasslands, chaparral, oak woodlands, agricultural fields, and coastal scrub from sea level to moderate elevations. Uses rodent burrows extensively for shelter and overwintering.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal in cooler months, becoming more crepuscular in hot summer weather. Feeds primarily on small mammals, which it kills by constriction, as well as birds and eggs. When threatened, it flattens its head, hisses loudly, and vibrates its tail. Lays eggs in early to midsummer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Pacific Gopher Snake venomous?
No, it is completely non-venomous and harmless to humans.
Why does it look like a rattlesnake?
It mimics rattlesnakes by flattening its head, hissing, and vibrating its tail as a bluff defense.
What does it eat?
Primarily rodents and other small mammals, along with birds and eggs, which it subdues by constriction.
Where does it live?
Along the Pacific coast of the US in grasslands, scrub, and agricultural areas.
Pacific Gopher Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Pacific Gopher Snake.
Pacific Gopher Snake identified by the community
Real snakes identified with Snake Identifier.
