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Thamnophis sirtalis
Usually found in forests, fields, and prairies to streams, wetlands, meadows, marshes, and ponds, and it is often found near water.
Found this little guy in the backyard under my Cottonwood tree hiding in the fallen leaves. He seemed angry when I carefully picked him up and put him on the patio. I took a pic with the cell phone to send to my husband asking if it was harmless or not. According to the neighbor, it is a grass snake. I would just love some more accurate help in identifying what this little guy is exactly.
ulvalactuca77 is absolutely correct - it's a lined snake. I used to live off 42nd and Riverside Drive in Tulsa and had these in my yard. I was thrilled to learn of their existence there after I had purchased the house. :-)
Peterson Field Guide p.323 PL.24 -"It's "bottoms up" for checking this snake. The double row of bold black half moons down the belly plus single anal plate should clinch identification."
I don't know about the anal plate but looks like the likely suspect.
I'm glad I looked at all the pictures to see that you picked him up with the rake! I was thinking you were a mad risk-taker! :D