Black racer snakes are a common sight in many parts of North America, recognized for their sleek appearance and swift movements. Despite their intimidating speed and common name, which might suggest otherwise, black racers are non-venomous. Understanding their characteristics and behavior can help dispel common fears and promote coexistence with these beneficial reptiles.
Are Black Racers Venomous?
Black racers (Coluber constrictor) are non-venomous, meaning they do not produce or inject venom. They are not “poisonous,” a term referring to toxins ingested rather than injected. While black racers are harmless in terms of venom, they can bite defensively if they feel threatened or cornered.
A bite from a black racer is not medically significant to humans. While it can be painful and may draw blood, it poses no serious health risk beyond minor irritation or infection, similar to any scratch or cut. If bitten, cleaning the wound with soap and water is generally the only necessary action. These snakes typically prefer to flee rather than confront a perceived threat, using their speed as a primary defense mechanism.
Identifying Black Racers and Their Behavior
Black racers are slender snakes, typically ranging from 33 to 65 inches, though some can reach up to 72 inches. Adults are uniformly solid black or dark gray with smooth scales, giving them a matte or shiny appearance. They often have a white or light-colored chin and throat, with the belly usually uniform dark gray or black. Juvenile black racers look quite different, displaying dark brown or reddish blotches on a lighter gray-brown body, which fades as they mature.
These snakes are diurnal, active during the day, especially in warm weather. They are known for their speed, moving at 8 to 10 miles per hour. Black racers are opportunistic predators with a varied diet including insects, lizards, frogs, other smaller snakes, small birds, rodents, and bird eggs.
They hunt by sight, actively foraging. When they catch prey, they do not constrict it; instead, they often pin it with their body or swallow smaller items whole. They inhabit a wide range of environments, including meadows, fields, forest edges, and suburban areas, often seeking refuge under logs or in burrows.
Encountering a Black Racer
If you encounter a black racer, observe it from a distance and allow it to move away. These snakes are timid and will attempt to flee when approached. Avoid attempting to handle or harass the snake, as this is when defensive bites are most likely to occur. While they may strike or vibrate their tail against dry leaves to mimic a rattlesnake as a warning, these are defensive behaviors from a non-venomous animal.
Black racers play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by helping control populations of rodents and other small animals. Their presence can indicate a healthy local environment. Maintaining a tidy yard by removing brush piles and keeping grass short can discourage snakes and their prey from lingering near homes. If a snake needs to be removed from a property, contact a professional wildlife removal service rather than attempting to handle it yourself.