Eastern Ratsnake
Elaphe obsoleta
Conservation Status
Least ConcernReptilia · Colubridae
About
Pantherophis obsoletus, also known commonly as the western rat snake, black rat snake, pilot black snake, or simply black snake, is a nonvenomous species of snake in the family Colubridae. The species is native to central North America west of the Mississippi River. No subspecies are recognized as being valid. Its color variations include the Texas rat snake. Along with other snakes of the eastern United States, like the eastern indigo snake and the eastern racer, it is called "black snake".
Fun Fact
After five weeks, the female lays about 12 to 20 eggs, which are 36–60 mm (1.
Quick Facts
Habitat
Live in a variety of habitats; some overlap each other.
Diet
Consumes mice, voles, and rats, the western rat snake is far from a specialist at this kind of prey, and readily consumes any small vertebrate it can catch.
Lifespan
15 years (captivity)
Threats
- Habitat Change
- Human Disturbance