Western Rat Snake
Pantherophis obsoletus
A large, dark constrictor of the central U.S. that darkens with age, closely related to the eastern and gray rat snakes.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.1-1.8 m (3.5-6 ft)
- Range
- Central United States, from the Midwest into parts of the southern Great Plains
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The western rat snake is part of the widespread Pantherophis obsoletus complex and is often difficult to distinguish from its close relatives without knowledge of range. Adults tend to darken considerably, sometimes to nearly solid black or dark brown with faint blotch outlines.
It is a strong climber and adept rodent hunter found throughout much of the central United States, frequently encountered around barns and old buildings.
How to identify it
- Dark brown, black, or dark gray adults, often with faint blotch remnants
- Juveniles more strongly blotched, resembling gray rat snakes
- White or cream chin and throat
- Weakly keeled scales; loaf-shaped body
- Round pupils
Habitat & range
Found in forests, rocky hillsides, prairies, and farmland throughout the central United States, frequently near rodent-rich structures like barns and grain stores.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Diurnal and crepuscular, climbs well and hunts rodents, birds, and eggs by constriction. Breeds in spring and lays eggs in rotting logs or loose soil in early summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the western rat snake the same as the black rat snake?
It is closely related and was once considered part of a single wide-ranging species now split into several forms.
Is it dangerous to people?
No, it is nonvenomous and generally harmless, though it may bite defensively if handled.
What does it eat?
Mainly rodents, birds, and bird eggs.
Western Rat Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Western Rat Snake.
Western Rat Snake identified by the community
Real snakes identified with Snake Identifier.
