Sneaky Sleek Snake!

A common nonvenomous snake that can be found in the southeastern US is the black racer! Because of their smooth (& shiny black scales!) and slender bodies, black racers are incredibly fast and make impressive predators. They help control populations of rodents, frogs, and insects.

Black racer staying still for the camera!

Despite their speed and agility, black racers are generally shy and prefer to avoid humans. When startled, they may vibrate their tails in leaf litter, mimicking a rattlesnake to warn off danger or they freeze their movements altogether before they bolt away! In order to hunt, they will climb low lying branches in trees or shrubs as well as hunt along the ground. Next time you spot a sleek black snake darting through your backyard or local woods with a white chin, you’re likely witnessing a black racer on the move!