What is a Sonoran gopher snake?

The Sonoran gopher snake, Pituophis catenifer affinis, is a light brown, straw or tan species native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. The snake has heavily keeled scales and a narrow head, with most adults reaching 5 to 6 feet in length.

The snake is identified by large brown or reddish blotches along the back and smaller markings on the sides. The neck back appears yellow or tan and bears small black spots, while the underside is cream or yellowish with dark spots. The Sonoran gopher snake is not a threat to humans; it feeds on small mammals, birds, birds' eggs, lizards and insects.