The term “Chicken Snake” is a common regional nickname applied to several species of non-venomous Rat Snakes (Pantherophis) found across North America. This name relates directly to their tendency to prey on birds, eggs, or chicks, rather than a uniform appearance. Because the name covers different species and color phases, the actual color of a “Chicken Snake” varies dramatically depending on its geographic location.
Identifying the “Chicken Snake”
The name “Chicken Snake” is a regional umbrella term, not a single species, used for snakes that frequent farms and outbuildings. The primary species involved are the Eastern Rat Snake (P. quadrivittatus or P. alleghaniensis), the Gray Rat Snake (P. spiloides), and sometimes the Corn Snake (P. guttatus). The specific snake referred to changes across the eastern and central United States. These constrictors are typically long, slender, and highly adapted to climbing.
Color and Appearance Variations
The most common colors associated with the “Chicken Snake” are yellow, gray, and black, linked to geographic range. In the southeastern coastal plain, the Yellow Rat Snake (P. quadrivittatus) is bright yellow to orange-yellow, marked with four distinct dark longitudinal stripes. Further north and west, the Gray Rat Snake (P. spiloides) is typically a duller gray, often retaining a blotched pattern characteristic of juveniles.
Adult Eastern Rat Snakes (P. alleghaniensis), found in the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, are often a sleek, uniform black color, frequently called Black Rat Snakes. Juveniles of nearly all Rat Snake species are patterned with dark blotches on a lighter gray background. This juvenile pattern typically fades or transforms into stripes or a solid color as the snake matures. Adults commonly reach lengths between four and six feet.
Why the Name “Chicken Snake”
The nickname “Chicken Snake” originated from the species’ opportunistic diet and climbing ability, which brought them into conflict with farmers. While their diet primarily consists of rodents, they also consume birds and bird eggs. Their exceptional climbing skills allow them to easily ascend trees, rafters, and chicken coops to access nests.
The snakes are attracted to farm buildings by both poultry and the abundance of rodents drawn to spilled livestock feed. Once inside a chicken coop, they readily consume eggs or small chicks, cementing their reputation among farmers. This behavior, not a physical feature, gave rise to the regional name. The consumption of rodents makes these snakes beneficial for pest control, despite occasional raids on fowl.
Safety and Temperament
All species commonly referred to as a “Chicken Snake” are non-venomous constrictors and pose no threat to humans or pets. They are considered docile snakes that prefer to avoid confrontation and retreat when possible. However, if cornered, handled, or threatened, they may strike in defense.
As a defensive display, a rat snake may vibrate its tail rapidly, which can sound like a rattlesnake if done in dry leaves or grass. They may also attempt to bite or release a foul-smelling musk from glands near the tail base to deter a predator. If one is encountered, the safest course of action is to observe it from a distance and allow it to move away naturally.