Eastern Ratsnake
Pantherophis alleghaniensis — Colubridae
42–72 inches Largest snake in Virginia; record is 79.8 inches
How to identify
- Adults: uniformly glossy black, 42–72+ inches
- Slightly keeled scales, slightly squared body cross-section
- White chin and throat
- Juveniles: gray with dark brown blotches and a V-shaped mark behind the head
- No rattle, round pupils
About this species
Virginia's most common large snake and an important part of the ecosystem, the eastern ratsnake is an excellent rodent controller found statewide in a wide variety of habitats. Adults are typically glossy black, but juveniles are dramatically different — gray with dark blotches — leading to frequent misidentification. They are powerful constrictors and skilled climbers.
Often confused with
Did you know
"Eastern ratsnakes are excellent climbers and have been found nesting in trees and barn rafters. They are also known to share den sites with copperheads and timber rattlesnakes during winter hibernation."
Sightings & citizen science
Help document Virginia wildlife by logging your sightings on iNaturalist. Every observation builds the conservation data that researchers and rehabbers depend on.
View Eastern Ratsnake observations on iNaturalist ↗If you've found an injured or displaced Eastern Ratsnake in Virginia, our triage guide walks you through what to do.