Pantherophis obsoletus

(Say, 1823)

Vernacular names
English : Western ratsnake
French : Serpent ratier Américain

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Colubridae
Notes : No subspecies known. Regroups former subspecies such as lindheimeri, quadrivittata and obsoletus.

Identification
The species can occasionally grow to over 2 m in length. Its coloration goes from light or dark grey to nearly pinkish-brown or orange brown with distinct large dark blotches on back. Smaller spots and blotches on flanks. Darker head.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in eastern and central North America, south to Oklahoma, Texas and eastwards to Louisiana. Lives in forests, woodlands, humid grasslands, occasionally urban areas.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : LEAST CONCERN
CITES : Not listed
Status : With the split of the original species, its status might be reassessed but it seems to be at least locally common within its range.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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