Gopher snake (Pituophis melanoleucus). 



Description: Montana's largest snake, adult Gopher snakes (also called Bullsnakes or Pine 

 snakes) can reach a total length of 7 feet, but most specimens we have seen in western 

 Montana ranged between 3-5 feet. They are readily recognized by a series of large black to 

 brown blotches which run down the back, and another series along the sides. The blotches, 

 which are set on a yellow background, become more spaced out towards the tail. The dorsal 

 scales are keeled. There is usually a black band on the head located in front of and extending 

 below the eyes. The ventral coloration is yellow to white, often spotted with black, and the 

 anal plate is undivided. Young Gopher snakes can be confused with young Racers which 

 also have the alternating black blotches, however the Racers have a black border on the dark 

 blotches, the scales are not keeled, and the anal plate is divided. Gopher snakes lay between 

 2-24 eggs during the summer months (Hammerson 1982a), and the young resemble the 

 adults in coloration. 



Habitat and Habits: Gopher snakes are associated with more dry, arid habitats including open 

 pine forests. They feed on rodents, rabbits and ground dwelling birds, and to a lesser extent 

 on frogs, toads, etc., found around stock ponds and other wetlands. They have a habit of 

 hissing and vibrating the tail when alarmed, often sounding like rattlesnakes. They 

 occasionally climb trees, hence the common name "Pine snake." 



Surveying: Walk-through surveys, done on a regular basis in warm, sunny weather probably 

 give the best results. Rocks and logs should be overturned (and replaced) when surveying. 

 Data can be enhanced by mark-recapture techniques. 



Status: Gopher snakes are known only from a single record within the KNF boundaries, on the 

 south side of Eureka; this record may represent an introduction. However, the more dry and 

 arid portions of the Fisher River and Fortine districts are capable of having Gopher snakes. 

 They are quite common in the western half of the Flathead Reservation. It is recommended 

 that any valid sighting be kept on file. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5. 



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