Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

A large (5 to 7 feet), defensive snake with a loud hiss, that vibrates its tail when nervous producing a loud whirring sound when in leaves or grasses, and that has large heavily keeled scales, and a feisty disposition. Much time is spent in rodent burrows. If disturbed while above ground it will often elevate its head well above body level and strike savagely from a modified coil. If sufficiently angered it may, while striking, actually move toward a person.

Unique Features:

Habitat and Diet:

Ubiquitous. Suburban yards to ranchlands to brushy desert. Prey consists primarily of burrowing rodents

Geographic Range:

CA