Black snake identification
Posted by Susan Murphy on August 29, 2006
Q: We have had a large (3-4 ft) shiny, black snake lurking around our garage and back steps. When we tried to get it to relocate, it began rattling. Is it poisonous? THank you, Susan
Habitat: forest/open woods
State: Kansas
Habitat: forest/open woods
A: Sounds like you've had an encounter with a Black Rat Snake (Elaphe obsoleta). There are several kinds of rat snakes and they're all known to vibrate their tails in defense even though they're NOT venomous. Rat snakes get their name because of their preference for small rodents so having this snake at your home should mean fewer mice to contend with. I realize that not everyone is comfortable with snakes but if you leave it alone, it will definitely leave you alone too. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( August 29, 2006)