Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer [=melanoleucusJ) 



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

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

 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 1 982a). 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 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 somewhat 

 like rattlesnakes. They occasionally climb trees, hence the common name "Pine Snake." 



Status: The Gopher Snake was not seen in this survey nor are there historic records ft'om the 

 study area or Teton County. However, they are known from lower elevation areas on the 

 plains to the east. They may occur on the study area at low to mid-elevations, but the 

 occupied range may actually end farther east; any record in the area should be reported, and 

 would be a new county record, helping to define the east edge of the range. Of particular 

 interest would be documentation of any denning sites located. 



Montana Natural Heritage Program Rank: G5 S5. 



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