You can see why people often confuse Sonoran Gophersnakes with rattlesnakes. This one was on a patio, trying its best to scare away perceived predators. Jon helped it get to a better spot for all involved.

This beat up Sonoran Gophersnake was called in as a rattlesnake. Normally, it’s easy enough to tell the tail of a rattlesnake from these harmless species, as gophersnakes have a pointed tail. But this one had an accident some time in its past, leaving it with a rounded stump. Living in the city can be hard for snakes, but this species often does pretty well with it … although sometimes a bit shorter. It was released to a safer spot in its estimated home range in north Phoenix.