The Gopher Snake (Pituophis catenifer) is a common and widespread non-venomous constrictor found across a vast portion of North America. This reptile ranges geographically from the Pacific Coast eastward to the Great Plains and extends from southern Canada down into northern Mexico. The species is recognized for its considerable length, often making it one of the largest snakes found in its native ecosystems. As a powerful constrictor, it plays a significant role in controlling rodent populations throughout its territory.
Measuring Gopher Snakes
The typical adult length of a Gopher Snake falls within a range of four to six feet (120 to 180 centimeters) from snout to tail. While four to six feet represents the common adult size, individuals occasionally reach maximum documented sizes, sometimes approaching eight feet or even slightly over nine feet (up to 275 centimeters) in total length.
The Gopher Snake is considered a heavy-bodied and muscular serpent. Although robust, its girth is generally more slender than that of bulkier constrictors, such as pythons or some species of large boas. This combination of length and relative slenderness contributes to its success as a terrestrial and semi-fossorial hunter.
Why Gopher Snake Size Varies
Variation in Gopher Snake size is largely a result of biological and environmental factors, with geography playing a dominant role. The species is divided into numerous subspecies, and the maximum length often differs significantly between these populations. For instance, the Sonoran Gopher Snake (P. c. affinis) is known to achieve greater lengths, sometimes reaching up to seven feet, while the Santa Cruz Gopher Snake (P. c. pumilis) is a dwarf form that rarely grows beyond three feet.
The availability and type of prey also directly influence a snake’s growth rate and final size. Gopher Snakes are opportunistic predators, and their diet shifts as they mature, starting with smaller prey like lizards and progressing to mammals and birds. In areas with a high density of large prey, the snakes can consume more calories and sustain a more rapid rate of indeterminate growth.
Climate dictates the length of the active season. In colder climates, snakes must spend more time hibernating, which limits the period available for feeding and growth. Conversely, Gopher Snakes living in warmer regions, such as the American Southwest, benefit from a longer active period. This extended season allows for more consistent feeding, permitting them to achieve a greater maximum body size before growth significantly slows later in life.