Western rat snake
A species of Rat snakes, Also known as Pilot black snake, Black chicken snake, Chicken snake, Mountain pilot snake, Western Ratsnake Scientific name : Pantherophis obsoletus Genus : Rat snakes
Western rat snake, A species of Rat snakes
Also known as:
Pilot black snake, Black chicken snake, Chicken snake, Mountain pilot snake, Western Ratsnake
Scientific name: Pantherophis obsoletus
Genus: Rat snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By mmcmasters , used under CC-BY-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
Pantherophis obsoletus â also known as the western rat snake, black rat snake, pilot black snake, or simply black snake â is a nonvenomous species of Colubridae found in central North America. No subspecies are currently recognized. Its color variations include the Texas ratsnake.
General Info
Lifespan
10-20 years
Diet
Western rat snake sustains itself primarily on a diet of small rodents, particularly mice and rats. Additionally, it may consume birds and their eggs, contributing to a diverse nutrition profile marked by high protein intake.
Appearance
Western rat snake is a large, slender snake with smooth scales. Their coloration varies, typically blacks or dark browns with lighter colored, irregular blotches down the length of their bodies. Juveniles tend to display more contrasting coloration. This species lacks conspicuous features like horns or wings, but has a long, tapered tail. There is no marked difference in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Western rat snake is a primarily nocturnal, solitary species active from late spring to early fall. It often forages in terrestrial habitats, feeding on small mammals and birds. Displaying secretive habits, it utilizes substrate like leaf litter for camouflage. Western rat snake is non-migratory, often hibernating in shared winter dens for survival in extreme climates. It defensively expands its jaws and vibrates its tail when threatened.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Rat snakes Species
Western rat snake 
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