Great Plains Rat Snake
Pantherophis emoryi
Pantherophis emoryi
| Size: 3 - 4 1/2 ft |
| Distribution |
| Statewide. The great plains rat snake is a common constrictor. Although adults are seldom seen, neonates and juveniles are very common. The great plains rat snake was at one time considered a subspecies of the corn snake, Pantherophis guttatus, but has recently been elevated to species level. It is easy identify by the spearpoint marking on the top of the head. Like the black rat snake, the great plains rat snake can inflict painful bites. Rat snakes are non-venomous, but bites have been known to become infected, usually a result of bacteria. |
| *Note: Collins, Joseph T. & Travis W. Taggart (2008. An alternative classification of the New World Rat Snakes (genus Pantherophis [Reptilia: Squamata: Colubridae]). Journal of Kansas Herpetology 26: 16-18) retained the generic name Pantherophis for this species. Standard common name remains Great Plains Rat Snake. |