Yellow+Rat+Snake

toc //Elaphe obsolete quadrivittata // Order: Squamata

=**__Husbandry Information__**=

Diet Requirements

 * In the wild, these constrictors eat rats, mice, small mammals, birds, and eggs.
 * In captivity, they are fed mice.

Notes on Enrichment & Training

 * Individuals - especially those hatched in the wild - can be quite aggressive. However, with constant handling, most yellow rat snakes become docile.

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Potential Messaging


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=__Natural History Information__=

Range and Habitat
Yellow rat snakes live throughout most of Florida and the Keys, and in a narrow strip along the Atlantic coast through Georgia and the Carolinas. They are often found in warm southern swamps, and are also common in abandoned buildings are barns. Preferred habitat is cypress stands, pinelands, or hardwood hammocks. Yellow rat snakes adapt well to residential areas, as long as there is enough prey to catch.

Physical Description
The color of this snake can range from orange to yellow to olive-green. Individuals from the northern part of its range are more olive in color, and the brighter yellow ones are found from around central Florida on south. The one identifying characteristic is the set of 4 stripes that run from the head to the tail in adults. Young rat snakes have very faint stripes, or no stripes at all. Instead, they have a blotched pattern that gradually fades. This snake can grow up to 7 feet in length. Typical weight is 3-5 pounds.

Life Cycle
Age of reproductive maturity is 2-3 years old. 4 to 28 eggs are laid per clutch each summer with a gestation period of 2-3 months. The eggs are typically laid in rotten logs. Yellow rat snakes can live 15 to 20 years in captivity.

Behavior
Individuals - especially those hatched in the wild - can be quite aggressive. However, with constant handling, most yellow rat snakes become docile. When surprised, they may coil and then strike at threatening objects. Also known to mimic rattlesnakes by shaking tails in dry leaves. Yellow rat snakes are excellent climbers. Breeding behavior includes emitting a strong-smelling offensive odor to attract mates; this same odor may also be emitted in defense.

Threats and Conservation Status
This species is not considered endangered. In fact, it is one of the more common snakes in Florida.

=__Did you know…__=
 * The scales on their bellies are squared off, which aides them in climbing.
 * Being skilled climbers, these snakes often raid bird nests for eggs. They particularly like chicken eggs and have earned themselves the name "Chicken Snake" in parts of their range as a result.

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=__Contributors and Citations__=
 * The Philadelphia Zoo
 * The Chicago Zoological Society, Brookfield Zoo