Glossysnake Arizona elegans

These are medium-sized (up to about 3' long) snakes that are often confused with the similar-looking Sonoran Gophersnake. As the name suggests, the Glossy Snake's appearance is often shiny or, well, glossy, due to a lack of ridge (keel) on each scale as is found in the Gophersnakes. Usually brown and tan, oranges and pink colors can be found as well, especially in the Painted Desert (Arizona elegans philipi) subspecies. They are harmless, but may attempt to bite and rattle their tail defensively. While they are common in the sandy soil and grasslands where they live, they are relatively elusive. Of species found within the metro-areas of Phoenix and Tucson, they are very infrequently encountered, with only a handful of individuals in our relocation records.

• Harmless
• Rarely encountered
• No action necessary
• Snake fencing somewhat effective