Southern Black Racer Snake

Description:

A large shiny black snake with a white chin and throat. Young rat snakes are patterned with dark blotches on a gray background, and traces of this juvenile coloration are often visible in adult specimens. This is Michigan's largest snake. Adult length: 3.5 to 8 feet.

Habitat:

Rat snakes live in or near woodlands, often near water. They climb well, and often enter barns and abandoned buildings in search of rodents, a favorite food. When approached they may hold perfectly still, perhaps trying to escape notice. If cornered or grabbed these snakes may hiss and strike, but are non venomous and harmless to humans.

Notes:

Located in a dry area near a mangrove swamp