We found this young glossysnake in Gila County on a warm evening. Often, Sonoran Gophersnakes are misidentified as this species. One notable trait to differentiate if up close is in its name. Sonoran Gophersnakes have a ridge (keel) in each scale that gives them a rough texture and appearance, and the Glossysnakes have no such keel, and look smooth and shiny in comparison.

They’re not uncommon, but most people who spend time outdoors are still unlikely to ever see one. Of the snake species we are called to capture at homes, too, this is among the least likely to be there. On that list, it falls behind non-native animals like the Ball Python and Green Iguana in total instances over the years.