Synonyms: Black Rat Snake, Complex Pantherophis alleghaniensis, Eastern/Gray Ratsnake Complex, Gray Ratsnake, Pantherophis alleghaniensis Complex, Pantherophis obsoleta, Pantherophis spiloides.
Taxonomy in the western part of the state is uncertain. Some taxonomists consider individuals in western Maryland to be Gray Ratsnake (Pantherophis spiloides) (e.g., IUCN Red List). Wherever the boundary is, individuals found near it are probably best classified as Eastern/Gray Ratsnake complex. The Maryland Amphibian and Reptile Atlas (page 192) and the Pennsylvania Amphibian and Reptile Survey have so far treated them as one species. Consulted local experts have noted a lack of morphological differences seen in examined specimens and the lack of DNA vouchers to establish the presence of Gray Ratsnake in Maryland. They expect that ultimately range lines will be used to sort these two taxa, and of course that will be easy to do from our collected point data. For now, MBP ingests records for Eastern, Gray, and Eastern/Gray Ratsnake Complex to this page.
The harmless and generally docile Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) is one of our most common and frequently encountered snakes. Maryland's largest snake species, it may reach an impressive size. Adults average 4.5 to 5.5 ft. in length (the rangewide record is 101 inches)(Conant & Collins, 1998). Eastern Ratsnakes may be found in virtually any non-urbanized habitat, including hardwood forests and edge habitats, agricultural areas, uplands and wetlands, and most other wooded habitats, provided there is a consistent rodent population. Ratsnakes are able climbers, and individuals may frequently be seen ascending tree in search of bird nests, or natural cavities to rest in (Tennant, 2003; Maryland DNR site). It is common throughout the state, though see the note on taxonomic uncertainty in western Maryland summarized above.
The Eastern Ratsnake is an excellent climber that preys upon small mammals, birds, and bird eggs. It is perhaps the most likely snake species to raid a nest box without a protective "baffle."
There are 1,106 records in the project database.
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