Eastern Ratsnake

Description:

The eastern or black ratsnake is a solid, shiny black and grows to lengths of 42-72 in. (106.7-183 cm). It may show traces of a spotted pattern when the skin is stretched, as after a meal. The light areas of skin between the scales may be white, yellow, orange, or red. The belly displays a vague checkerboard pattern of gray or brown on white or yellowish.

Habitat:

This is a terrestrial species that also climbs trees. It is found in a variety of habitats, including agricultural areas, most types of hardwood forest, isolated urban woodlots, and forested wetlands. Rat snakes are often found in barns and old buildings where preys on mice and other small rodents.

Notes:

This snake had a red mite crawling on it, the mite is visible on the eye in the second photo.