All About Black Rat Snakes

By Krista Noble
Published on June 15, 2015
article image
Flickr/Virginia State Parks

When you know all about the black rat snake, you’ll see it as a country classic that shouldn’t get the same treatment as a venomous snake.

If you’ve ever lived on a farm in the eastern or central United States, then you’ve probably spied a shiny black rat snake slithering through the grass. If so, what was your reaction? Curiosity? Fear? Revulsion?

Actually, appreciation might be the most appropriate response. The nonvenomous western rat snake (Pantherophis obsoletus), or Texas black rat snake as it is sometimes called, is an asset to farmers. Often confused in the East with the black racer snake (Coluber constrictor), black rat snakes are capable hunters and highly efficient at catching rodents. The black rat snake helps to control the population of mice and rats – which eats grain, fouls your toolbox and spreads disease.

All About Black Rat Snakes

How do you know if you’ve spotted a black rat snake? As its name implies, this snake is black, sometimes with gray blotches. Young snakes of the species can be confused with small copperheads or other species, since in their youth – typically the first two years of life – their appearance can feature dark brown or black blotches (blotches are typically longer than they are wide) on a light gray ground color. A splash of white accents the reptile’s chin and may be visible on its underbelly.

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