California's Largest Snakes

California is home to more than 80 species and subspecies of snake, varying in size from a few inches to several feet. Most of the state's snakes are non-venomous and even the large species, if respected, don't pose much threat to humans. There is an exception; one of California's largest snakes is also its most deadly.

  1. Red Racer

    • The largest snake species in the state is the red racer, also known as the red coachwhip. It grows up to 102 inches in length and has a slender body type. The snake ranges from light brown to pinkish-red in color with faded yellow striping along the body. It is native to most of southern California and lives in open areas such as dessert, grassland and loose scrub.

    Western Diamondback Rattlesnake

    • California's second largest snake species is its most dangerous. The western diamondback rattlesnake grows to between 30 and 90 inches in length and has a thick body type with a narrow neck and a distinct triangular head shape. Coloration varies by region from gray, brown and tan to yellowish, with the distinctive darker diamond-shaped markings along the snake's back. This snake fortunately is only found in the southeast corner of California in arid or semi-arid habitats. It's a highly venomous species that can deliver a deadly bite if provoked.

    Gopher Snakes

    • The next largest snakes in California are gopher snakes, which grow up to 83 inches. Five subspecies of gopher snake are found in the state; all grow to a large size including the Sonoran, San Diego, Pacific, Great Basin and Santa Cruz Island gophers. Gopher snakes have moderately thick body types and tend to be a light brownish color with darker brown mottled patterning. The various subspecies are found in different areas and gopher snakes are found throughout California.

    Western Yellow-Bellied Racer

    • Related to the red racer, the western yellow-bellied racer is California's fourth largest snake species. It grows up to 75 inches in length and has a slender body type. It ranges from brown to greenish in color along the back and has a pale white to yellowish underside. When young, the snakes have a more mottled coloration and were for a while thought to be a different species. The yellow-bellied racer is found throughout most of California except for the drier southeastern regions. It is mainly found in grassland, loose brush or near water.