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Black ratsnake
Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta
36.154, -95.9928
Field Notes
Description:
Long, dark-colored constrictor that can vary in coloration. It can be totally black, have dark blotches under a light black color, or be black with some reddish-orange flecks mixed in. The belly is creamy white to greenish-yellow and is sometimes mottled. The scales are weakly keeled and the anal plate is divided.
Habitat:
Wooded forests and canyons, open fields, and farmlands.
Notes:
Hatchlings are a light gray with dark blotches and look nothing like the adult form. They have a dark bar that runs across their snout and between their eyes, and they are quick to vibrate their tail when threatened. Many people confuse juvenile black ratsnakes with rattlesnakes because of this behavior. (Note: Tail buzzing is not limited to juveniles, as adults are also prone to using this as a defense mechanism)
Adults are commonly found in trees and along the eaves of houses due to their preference for birds and their eggs. This occasionally causes them to get inside of attics, much to the dismay of most homeowners. Also known as "black snake," "chicken snake," "pilot ratsnake," and "western ratsnake."
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