AmphibiansReptiles
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Western Ratsnake (Pantherophis obsoletus)
DescriptionThis species was previously known as the Black Ratsnake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta). Adults of this species in Arkansas are large, muscular, constricting snakes. The dominating Juveniles of the species look decidedly different from the adults. Complete darkening may take 2-5 years. The juvenile patterning could best be described as "blotched". The background coloration can vary from light gray to brown to tan. The blotches are dark; either black, dark brown, or dark gray. These blotches may be bordered with a thin outline of cream. This species was long considered the same species as the Gray Ratsnake, Western / Black Ratsnake, Yellow Ratsnake, and Everglades Ratsnake. Recent analysis has suggested the redefinition of this complex into three distinct lineages: Eastern Ratsnake (found east of the Apalachicola River and Appalachian Mountains), Gray Ratsnake (found between the Apalachicola River and the Mississippi River), and Western Ratsnake (found west of the Mississippi River). The Western Ratsnake can be distinguished from the North American Racer, the other common "black snake" found in Arkansas, by the presence of a ridge (called a This species is known by several common names, including Black Ratsnake, Chicken Snake, Mountain Black Snake, or Pilot Snake. Often, it is simply Black Snake.  HabitatsThis species can be found in a variety of habitats, especially where there is an abundance of mice and rats. Ideal habitat for this species can be found in and around barns, chicken houses, brush piles, old junk piles, and other similar structures. They can be found in both woodlands and open fields. A large portion of their time is likely spent high up in trees, either coiled in hollows or stretched out on branches. This species, due to its larger size and need to actively forage, spends a good portion of time basking. The dark Habits and Life HistoryThe snake appears to follow a pattern typical for many species in the state: hibernate through winter, breed in the spring, and lay eggs in the summer. Road kills of Ratsnakes in the early spring often provides the first evidence that snakes have emerged from hibernation. During this time, Ratsnakes are travelling to their summer foraging areas, searching for mates, and basking. One of the earliest species to emerge in the spring, the Ratsnake is also one of the last in the fall to seek a den site. It is thought that a single den site may be used year after year. The namesake "Pilot Ratsnake" comes from the erroneous belief that a Ratsnake will "pilot" other snakes, including Prey and Hunting TechniquesThis species eats a variety of warm-blooded prey, not just rats as the name implies. Any mammal or bird that is slow enough to catch and small enough to eat is fair game. Bird eggs are also a favorite. While this species usually hunts by actively seeking after prey, it is also opportunistic and is certain to seize upon any suitable prey that wanders by it. A Ratsnake is a powerful constrictor that wraps its body around prey with lightning speed. Once a mouse or other rodent is clenched in a Ratsnake's coils, there is little question as to the outcome. Temperament and DefenseThe temperament of Ratsnakes varies by individual, though most tame with some handling. As defense, a Ratsnake will employ the usual: pooping, releasing a foul-smelling musk, and biting. When defensive, they may tense their coils around a handler's hand and become reluctant to let go until positioned low to the ground so that they can "crawl out of their grip". ConservationDespite an apparent bad track record with regard to human encounters, this species remains abundant and common. Most human-attributable deaths are caused by vehicles. The species has a true affinity for blacktop, but its large size, coupled with high-speed traffic, and unfavorable attitudes makes for a deadly mix. Farmers who raise chickens may consider the Ratsnake to be a true pest (since nothing is tastier for a Ratsnake than baby chickens and chicken eggs). The myth of Ratsnakes interbreeding with Copperheads to produce State Distribution and Abundance
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