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Pantherophis obsoletus (Black Rat Snake)
A large adult Pantherophis obsoletus (black rat snake) in its natural wooded habitat. This nonvenomous constrictor is known for its glossy black coloration with white chin and throat.
Overview
Pantherophis obsoletus, commonly called the western rat snake or black rat snake, is a large nonvenomous colubrid snake native to central North America. Adults typically measure 3.5–6 feet (1.1–1.8 m) in length, with some exceptional individuals reaching up to 8.5 feet (2.6 m) long. They are heavy-bodied snakes, yet excellent climbers and capable swimmers. In the wild, black rat snakes play a beneficial role as rodent predators, and they have become popular in herpetoculture due to their hardiness and relatively docile nature with regular handling. With proper care, a captive P. obsoletus can live 10–15 years, and some may exceed 20 years in age.
Videos
Data Sheet
| pantherophis_obsoletus (serpentes) | |
|---|---|
| Profile Pic |  |
| Common Name | Western Rat Snake / Black Rat Snake |
| Scientific Name | Pantherophis obsoletus |
| Other Names | Pilot Black Snake, Black Snake, “That's a huge snake!” |
| Family | Colubridae |
| Genus | Pantherophis |
| Species | obsoletus |
| Grouping | cornsnakes_ratsnakes |
| Difficulty | 1 |
| Basking Temperature | 85-90°F (29-32°C) |
| Cooling Area | 72-77°F (22-25°C) |
| Humidity Range | 50-70% |
| Notes | The bigger, blacker corn snake. |