Lampropeltis gentilis

Analyses by Ruane et al. (2014) support the existence of seven distinct species previously considered to be L. triangulum, which they proposed be formally recognized. These seven taxa were all originally described as full species based on morphology (e.g., size, body form, color/pattern) before being synonymized with L. triangulum and are as follows: L. triangulum (Lacépède 1788), L. gentilis (Baird and Girard 1853), L. elapsoides (Holbrook 1838), L. annulata Kennicott 1861, L. polyzona Cope 1861, L. abnorma (Bocourt 1886), and L. micropholis Cope 1861. See Chambers and Hillis (2020) and Chambers et al. (2023) for alternate views on the validity of L. gentilis as distinct from the former L. triangulum. See Burbrink et al. (2024) for reanalysis and evaluation of Chambers et al. (2023) demonstrating species status.

Large range in western United States; many occurrences, large area of occupancy; presumed large population size; localized threats from habitat loss/degradation and collection for pet trade but overall not very threatened.

Range extends from Utah, eastern Montana (Werner et al. 2004), South Dakota, and Nebraska south through portions of Wyoming, western and eastern Colorado, Kansas, and Oklahoma to southeastern Arizona, southern New Mexico, southern Texas, southern Arkansas, and Louisiana west of the Mississippi River (Ruane et al. 2014). Elevational range extends from near sea level to around 2,740 meters (Stebbins 2003).

The number of distinct occurrences has not been determined using consistent criteria, but this species is represented by a very large number of collection sites and locations (as defined by IUCN).

Intensive agricultural development and urbanization have caused localized declines, and collectors probably have depleted accessible populations near roads, but in most areas this snake is not threatened.