Species Reptiles & AmphibiansEastern Rat Snake

Eastern Rat Snake

Pantherophis alleghaniensis

CommonReptile & Amphibian
Illustration of Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis)

The Eastern Rat Snake is a large constrictor of the Atlantic coastal plain. It is an excellent climber and an important predator of rodents in forests, farms, and suburban areas. Adults are typically glossy black.

Habitat
Hardwood forests, farmland, and wooded suburban areas
Diet
Rodents, birds, bird eggs, and occasionally bats
How common
Common

Best time to see a Eastern Rat Snake

The best time to see a Eastern Rat Snake is April–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 55,645 research-grade iNaturalist observations.

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Recent Eastern Rat Snake sightings near you

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