Black Rat Snake (juvenile)

Description:

A long, thin snake. Black with a white underbelly. This one still has some of its juvenile patterning visible, though faded. Black/gray checkered pattern on belly. Did not like being handled; just wanted to get away. It bit me once and sprayed its musk. Since it's only a juvie, though, the musk wasn't strong. A fast mover along the ground. Also an amazing tree climber. A spunky, beautiful little critter :)

Habitat:

Found in garage, inside the bat pouch of a softball bag I haven't used in a long time. (This is the second juvie rat snake we've found in our garage.) I released it outside, where it slithered through the flowerbed, across the grass, and into a wooded area. Then it climbed a tree! Rat snakes are adept tree climbers. was a real treat to watch this snake's graceful climbing skills.