Gray Ratsnake

Pantherophis spiloides

Classification

  • Reptiles and Amphibians

Conservation Status

  • The Gray Ratsnake is a nonvenomous snake that hunts rodents and birds, killing its prey by constriction. 
  • The snake is an excellent climber and is often high in the canopy. 
  • The snake imitates a rattlesnake, audibly rattling its tail when threatened. 
  • It is illegal to kill any native species of venomous or nonvenomous snake in the state of Tennessee.

About this site

The Cumberland River Basin project aims to promote the ecological and economical health of the Cumberland River Basin, an 18,000 square mile region that stretches across 70 Tennessee and Kentucky counties and home to more than 2 million people. 

Photography

A majority of the photography featured on this site was provided courtesy of Chuck Sutherland. For more information please visit Chuck’s website.

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The Cumberland River Compact works to enhance the health and enjoyment of the Cumberland River and its tributaries through education, restoration, and collaboration. Learn more by visiting cumberlandrivercompact.org.