A medium-large constrictor with gray background and darker blotches. Excellent climber. Often found in barns and attics hunting rodents.

Also called: Black Rat Snake, Pilot Snake

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeLength 56–125 cm (22–49 in)
Weight225–680 g (8–24 oz)
LifespanWild 6–8 years; captive 23+
OrderSquamata
FamilyColubridae

§ Encyclopedia

The central ratsnake, also commonly known as the black ratsnake, gray ratsnake, chicken snake, midland ratsnake, or pilot black snake, is a species of nonvenomous snake in the subfamily Colubrinae of the family Colubridae. The gray ratsnake is one of eight species within the American ratsnake genus Pantherophis.

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

§ Identification

Field marks. Long brown snake with darker blotches in chain pattern.

Similar species. Other rat snake species.

Voice. Hisses defensively.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small mammals, lizards, occasionally other snakes.

Behavior. Constrictor. Patrolling-style hunter. Among the most common eastern non-venomous snakes.

§ Range

Southeastern US

§ Habitat

Forests, brushy areas, agricultural buildings

§ Threats

Habitat loss, persecution, road mortality.

§ Conservation status

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

§ What helps

Don't kill non-venomous snakes. Tolerate rat snakes in outbuildings.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • The Orianne Society
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2007