What is the scientific name of the black rat snake, a common North American constrictor?

The scientific name of the black rat snake is Pantherophis obsoletus.

The black rat snake is a nonvenomous North American constrictor found across a broad area of the central and eastern United States. Adults are often dark, but their exact pattern and color can vary with age and location. Young snakes commonly show more obvious blotches than adults.

Taxonomy has changed over time. The species was formerly widely placed in the genus Elaphe, which explains why older books and websites may list Elaphe obsoleta. Modern classifications generally use Pantherophis obsoletus, although subspecies and regional forms have also been debated.

Black rat snakes eat rodents, birds, and other small animals. They are capable climbers and may enter barns, trees, or abandoned buildings while hunting. Their dark appearance sometimes leads to confusion with venomous species, but they are not pit vipers and do not possess venom-delivery fangs.