SOUTHEAST WASHINGTON — A gopher snake was recently observed emerging from tall grasses at McNary National Wildlife Refuge, captured on video by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The snake, known for preying on small mammals such as rats and rabbits, also consumes birds, eggs, lizards and insects. Though nonvenomous, the gopher snake is a skilled mimic—when threatened, it coils and behaves much like a rattlesnake, minus the rattle.

This encounter near the confluence of the Columbia and Snake rivers highlights the diverse wildlife supported by the refuge. Officials remind the public that while gopher snakes may startle hikers, they are harmless and play a crucial role in rodent control.

Source: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service