Black snakes are common. Many wonder if these sleek, dark serpents, including Eastern Ratsnakes and Black Racers, are active once the sun sets. Understanding their typical behaviors sheds light on when and why you might spot them.
Understanding Black Snake Behavior
Black snakes, such as the Eastern Ratsnake (also known as the black rat snake) and the Black Racer, are primarily diurnal, active during daylight hours. During the spring and fall, these snakes actively hunt, bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature, and move through their habitats. Black Racers, for instance, are known to forage actively by sight throughout the day. Eastern Ratsnakes are constrictors that seek out prey like rodents, birds, and bird eggs.
These snakes inhabit a variety of environments, including woodlands, open fields, agricultural areas, and even suburban landscapes. Eastern Ratsnakes are often found near human structures such as barns, where they can find abundant food sources. Black Racers are adaptable, thriving in diverse areas like forest edges, old fields, and wetland fringes. Their daytime activity allows them to utilize solar energy and target typical prey.
Why You Might See Them After Dark
While black snakes are predominantly active during the day, there are specific circumstances where they might be observed after dark. Eastern Ratsnakes, particularly during the hotter summer months, can shift their activity patterns to become more crepuscular, active at dusk and dawn, or even nocturnal. This behavioral adjustment helps them avoid overheating during extreme daytime temperatures, as snakes are ectothermic and rely on their environment for warmth.
Black snakes are also opportunistic hunters, and their activity can be influenced by the availability of prey. If their preferred food sources, such as rodents, are more active at night, a black snake might adjust its hunting schedule to take advantage of these opportunities. Incidental encounters can also occur after dark, such as a snake crossing a road that retains heat from the day, or moving between distant foraging areas. These nighttime sightings are typically exceptions to their usual daytime routines, driven by environmental conditions or prey behavior.
What to Do If You Encounter a Black Snake
Encountering a black snake can be startling, but it is important to remember that common species like the Eastern Ratsnake and Black Racer are non-venomous. These snakes generally have round pupils, distinguishing them from some venomous species. Eastern Ratsnakes often have a white or creamy yellow chin and throat, with a mottled or checkerboard pattern on their belly. Black Racers possess a white chin and smooth scales, and neither species has rattles.
The best course of action upon spotting a black snake is to maintain a safe distance and leave it undisturbed. They are typically non-aggressive and will either freeze or attempt to flee when approached. While they may vibrate their tail against leaves to mimic a rattlesnake or strike if cornered, bites are rare and usually occur only when they feel threatened. These snakes play a beneficial role in the ecosystem by controlling rodent populations around homes and farms.