San Diego Gopher Snake
Pituophis catenifer annectens
A large southern California gopher snake subspecies frequently seen in coastal sage scrub and chaparral habitats.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 1.2-1.8 m (4-6 ft)
- Range
- Southern California and northern Baja California
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Overview
The San Diego Gopher Snake inhabits the coastal and inland regions of southern California and northern Baja California, occupying a range that overlaps with urban and suburban development.
It is a harmless, beneficial predator often mistaken for a rattlesnake due to its defensive display.
How to identify it
- Cream to tan body with dark brown or black dorsal blotches
- Pattern intermediate between other California gopher snake subspecies
- Rough, keeled scales
- Small head not much wider than neck, round pupils
- No rattle; tail tapers to a point unlike a rattlesnake's segmented rattle
Habitat & range
Common in coastal sage scrub, chaparral, grassland, and agricultural edges throughout its range, from sea level to foothill elevations.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Active during the day in mild weather, shifting to dusk activity in hot summer months. Feeds on rodents, rabbits, and birds via constriction. Defensive display includes loud hissing and tail vibration against leaf litter. Lays eggs in early summer.
Frequently asked questions
Is the San Diego Gopher Snake harmful?
No, it is completely non-venomous and harmless to people.
Why is it often mistaken for a rattlesnake?
It mimics rattlesnake behavior by hissing loudly and vibrating its tail when threatened.
Where does it live?
Southern California and northern Baja California, in scrub and chaparral habitats.
What is its diet?
Small mammals, birds, and their eggs.
San Diego Gopher Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding San Diego Gopher Snake.
