Many people encounter black snakes and wonder if they pose any danger. These reptiles are a common sight in various environments. Understanding them can clarify common misconceptions.
Distinguishing Common Black Snakes
Several species of non-venomous snakes commonly appear black, making identification important.
The Eastern rat snake, also known as the black rat snake, is a large constrictor reaching 3.5 to 7 feet, with some records up to 8 feet 5 inches. They have shiny black scales, a light-colored belly, and a white chin and throat. These excellent climbers are often found around buildings, woodlands, and farmlands.
King snakes are also primarily black, often with distinct patterns. Eastern king snakes typically have black or brown scales with 15 to 44 narrow yellow or white bands or spots. Their bellies often show a checkerboard pattern of light and dark patches. They typically measure 36 to 48 inches long but can reach up to 7 feet and inhabit forests, fields, and urban areas.
Garter snakes often have a dark, sometimes black, background color. They are characterized by three light-colored stripes, usually yellow, cream, or greenish, running down their backs and sides. These slender snakes typically average 22 inches in length, though some can grow up to 54 inches. Garter snakes are adaptable and found in various habitats, including forests, fields, suburban yards, and often near water sources.
Are They Dangerous?
Most black snakes commonly encountered in North America are not venomous and pose little threat to humans. While they might bite if provoked or cornered, their bites are not dangerous to people.
These snakes play an important role in the ecosystem as natural pest controllers. Black rat snakes consume significant numbers of rodents, reducing property damage and disease spread. King snakes also eat rodents, birds, lizards, and even other snakes, including venomous ones like rattlesnakes, to whose venom they are often resistant.
Some dark-colored venomous snakes might be mistaken for black snakes, though their identifying features are distinct. Copperheads, which can have dark coloration, are pit vipers with a stout body and hourglass-shaped crossbands. They also possess a triangular head, vertical pupils, and heat-sensing pits between their eyes and nostrils.
Cottonmouths, also known as water moccasins, can appear dark brown to nearly black, especially as adults, often obscuring their crossband patterns. They are heavy-bodied, have a noticeably wider head than their neck, and, like copperheads, have vertical pupils and facial pits. Juvenile copperheads and cottonmouths may have a bright yellow or green tail tip, which fades with age. Recognizing these characteristics helps distinguish them from harmless black snake species.
What to Do When You See a Black Snake
When encountering a black snake, remain calm and maintain a respectful distance. Most black snakes are not aggressive and will attempt to avoid contact. Giving the snake space allows it to move away naturally.
If a black snake is in an undesirable location, such as inside a home, it is advisable to contact local animal control or a professional wildlife removal service. These professionals have the expertise to safely and humanely remove the snake. Attempting to capture or handle a snake without proper training can lead to unnecessary bites.
To make a yard less inviting to snakes, several measures can be taken. Removing potential hiding spots, such as piles of wood, rocks, or debris, and keeping grass mowed short can help. Snakes are attracted to areas with food sources, so controlling rodent populations in and around the property can also deter them. Sealing cracks and crevices in foundations and around pipes can prevent snakes from entering structures.