Meet Arizona's longest snake

The gopher snake is the undisputed heavyweight champion of Arizona snakes, often stretching from 6 to 9 feet in some cases. This makes it the longest snake in the state.

Gopher snakes are sometimes mistaken for Arizona’s other famous snake — the rattlesnake — due to its loudly hissing and the way they shake their tails. However, the two snakes have very different looks.

And despite its intimidating size, gopher snakes are non-venomous, making them harmless to humans and just more dramatic than dangerous.

Here is everything you need to know about Arizona’s biggest snake.

What is the biggest snake found in Arizona?

We talked to Heather L. Bateman, associate dean for Graduate Studies and Research at Arizona State University, who told us that the Sonoran gopher snake is the biggest and the most common in the Phoenix area

“Gopher snakes are one of my favorites of all snakes. They are very common and occur in the city and in desert areas,” said Bateman.

How big do gopher snakes get?

Bateman said that gopher snacks can grow 92 inches, which is over 7 feet, though 4 to 5 feet is more common. Though gopher snakes can grow up to 9 feet in some rare cases.

What time of day are gopher snakes most active?

In Arizona, gopher snakes are most active during the warmer months, especially spring and fall, with peak activity in April-May and September when temperatures are warm but not extreme.

“They can be active day or night. They can become inactive during cold months,” said Bateman.

How do you identify a gopher snake?

There are many ways you can identify a gopher snake.

Bateman mentions that they have dorsal blotches across the back, and those blotches are connected along the sides with other blotches and lines. The belly is pale and the head and body are about the same width.

"They are brown and tan and can be reddish brown or creamy yellow,” said Bateman. “(They are) different from rattlesnakes because they do not have a triangular head or rattles on the tail. I tend to see them when they are on the move. Again, most rattlesnakes tend to coil up and rest in a location for a while.”

Is it safe to pick up a gopher snake?

Usually, it is safe to pick up a gopher snake, but it will bite if it feels threatened. A bite isn’t medically serious, but it can break the skin and hurt.

“They can put on a pretty good display if they feel threatened by flattening the head, hissing loudly, and will even vibrate their tails,” said Bateman. “These are signs that you should give the snake some space because it doesn't feel safe. But most of the time they are just fun to watch.”

For everyone's safety, it's not recommended to pick up wildlife due to potential injury, disease and stress to the animal.

Are gopher snakes in Arizona poisonous?

A poisonous substance must be ingested or absorbed to cause harm. Think poison ivy, toxic mushrooms or a toad’s skin secretions.

A venomous animal, such as a rattlesnake, scorpion or spider injects toxins through bites, stings or fangs.

Gopher snakes, however, are nonvenomous.

“If the snake feels threatened, it may strike out fast, with its mouth closed, or bite. They do have teeth and can bite and break the skin," said Bateman. "Again, no venom, but it would startle you. Many are rather calm."

How do you tell a gopher snake apart from a rattlesnake?

If you are unsure if you spotted a rattlesnake or a gopher snake, assume it’s a rattlesnake and keep your distance.

Typically, gopher snakes have a long, thin tail, while rattlesnakes have thicker tails. Gopher snakes usually have round pupils, whereas rattlesnakes have vertical, cat-like pupils.

A rattlesnake’s head is typically broad and triangular, while a gopher snake’s head is narrower and less distinct from its neck.

Can gopher snakes climb walls?

Yes, gopher snakes are expert climbers, says Bateman. They can climb walls, trees and can scale rough or textured surfaces like rock walls, block walls, fences or stucco. They can’t climb smooth, slick walls like glass or polished metal.

Do gopher snakes burrow in the ground?

Yes, gopher snakes do use burrows, but they usually don’t dig their own. They move into abandoned burrows made by animals like gophers, ground squirrels or rats. These burrows are used as spaces where they can stay cool or warm, rest and avoid predators.

Do gopher snakes bite dogs?

Gopher snakes don’t seek out dogs, but yes, they can bite a dog if they feel threatened. The bite is nonvenomous and usually more of a quick defensive snap than an attack.