Southern Black Racer

Description:

Adult color is black with white markings on the chin and throat. The belly is grayish to uniform black. The body is slender and the scales are smooth. The pupil is round. (Florida Museum of Natural History)

Habitat:

Commonly found in pinelands, hardwood hammocks, prairies, sandhills, scrub, and cypress strands. (Florida Museum of Natural History)

Notes:

Harmless (Non-Venomous), though they will readily bite to defend themselves. Racers are one of the snakes most likely to be seen by Floridians. It inhabits both rural and urban habitats and is frequently seen in residential areas during the daytime. Like other racers, it is fast moving and can climb and swim well. When discovered, the racer will usually flee for shelter, relying on its speed and agility to avoid capture. However, when cornered, its only defense is to strike. Its bite is harmless, but its needle-sharp teeth can cause bleeding. When annoyed, it may rapidly vibrate its tail in the leaf litter, producing a buzzing sound. (Florida Museum of Natural History)