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Animal's Behavior

The snakes spend 60% of their time below ground. They can hiss loudly when restrained but are non-venomous.

Eating Habits

Rodents, rabbits, birds and eggs

Range

Sandy soils and open pine forests

Conservation Efforts

Recognized as one of the rarest snake in North America, the Louisiana pine snake is protected in the wild and carefully managed in zoos. Louisiana pine snake survival depends on the Baird’s pocket gopher, the primary food source. A number of zoos and governmental agencies are working diligently on recovery efforts for the Louisiana pine snake. American Zoo and Aquarium Association manages a Species Survival Plan for the snake to oversee the captive population. Audubon Zoo is a proud participant.

Animal Facts

• The Louisiana pine snake has large eggs and large hatchlings (18 – 22 inches).
• There are four eggs to a clutch.
• Low reproductive rates hamper efforts to repopulate traditional habitats.

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