Pituophis ruthveni

(Stull, 1929)

Vernacular names

English : Louisiana pine snake
French : Serpent des pins de Louisiane

Classification

Class : Reptilia
Order : Squamata
Family : Colubridae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification

The maximum length reached by this species is 180 cm but it’s generally smaller. Yellow ground coloration with fine spotting making a reticulate pattern on neck and first half of body. Large brown blotches on back.

Range and habitat

The species is endemic to south-eastern USA and only occurs around Louisiana and east Texas. It has been introduced to Florida. Lives in longleaf pine savanna with sandy ground and grass cover.

Conservation

IUCN RED LIST : ENDANGERED
CITES : Not listed
Status : The species has a small range and populations are all declining because of habitat loss. Its range is now severely fragmented.
Ex-Situ Programs : SSP in America

Observation