Large (up to 180 cm TL), stout snake with a disproportionately small head. Back yellow to tan with 36-54 black (anterior and posterior) and brown (midbody) blotches that alternate with two rows of dark spots on each side. Tail marked with 8-15 black rings that contrast sharply with yellow-and-black-checkered belly. Juvenile resembles adult except that its back is tanner and back blotches are usually all black.