A large non-venomous constrictor that can reach 6 feet — one of the most beneficial snakes a homeowner can have. They consume large numbers of rodents (and the occasional bird egg).

Native status: Native; widespread in eastern US

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 60–110 cm (24–43 in)
Weight150–340 g (5–12 oz)
LifespanWild 12 years; captive 20
OrderSquamata
FamilyColubridae

§ Encyclopedia

Pantherophis quadrivittatus, commonly called the yellow ratsnake or eastern ratsnake, is a species of nonvenomous snake in the family Colubridae. The species is endemic to North America.

Source: Wikipedia — Yellow ratsnake Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Long brown snake with darker blotches; pale belly.

Similar species. Eastern Rat Snake (similar but slightly different). Black Racer (no blotches).

Voice. Hisses defensively.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small mammals, birds, frogs.

Behavior. Active during day. Excellent climber. Among the most common eastern non-venomous snakes.

§ Range

Eastern US from New England to Florida

§ Habitat

Forests, farms, suburbs; excellent climbers and barn-dwellers

§ Threats

Persecution, vehicle strikes, building exclusion that traps snakes inside walls.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the eastern rat snake is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Don't kill snakes. Properly seal homes BEFORE snake season (early spring). Tolerate them as natural rodent control.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • The Orianne Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2007