Gopher Snake (Piluophis catenifer f=melanoleucnsJ) 



Description: Montana's largest snake, the adult Gopher Snake (also called BuUsnake or Pine 

 Snake) can reach a total length of 7 feet, but most specimens seen in western Montana range 

 from 3-5 feet. It is 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 widely spaced and darker 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. 



Eggs and Young: Gopher Snakes lay between 2-24 eggs during the summer months 

 (Hammerson 1982a), and the young resemble the adults in coloration. 



Similar species: Young Racers have a black border on dark blotches and the scales are not 



keeled. Young Western Hognose Snakes have an upturned nose. Western Rattlesnakes have 

 a rattle on their tail and triangular-shaped heads. 



Habitat and Habits: Gopher Snakes are associated with dry. arid habitats, including grassland, 

 shrub-steppe, and open pine forest. They feed on rodents, rabbits, ground-dwelling birds, and 

 to a lesser extent on frogs and toads 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 without resorting to trapping techniques. They are most easily found 

 near dens in the spring and fall. Funnel trapping is effective and they may occasionally be 

 found by night driving during the mid-summer. Data can be enhanced by mark-recapture 

 techniques. 



Status: The Gopher Snake was seen once in the Ekalaka Hills during this survey and there are 

 historic records from the Ekalaka Hills and Long Pines on the Sioux-CNF. They probably 

 occur on all units of the Sioux-CNF and Visher (1914) said it was the most abundant snake in 

 Harding County; any sightings should be documented. Of particular interest would be 

 documentation of any denning sites located. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5. 



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