The term “black snake” commonly refers to several species of non-venomous constrictors in North America, primarily the Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) and the Black Racer (Coluber constrictor). These snakes reproduce by laying eggs, a process known as oviparity. Understanding the appearance of their eggs is the first step toward identifying the species and making informed decisions about the discovery. This guide provides clear, detailed information for identifying and handling the eggs of these common reptiles.
Physical Characteristics of Black Snake Eggs
Snake eggs differ significantly from the hard, brittle shells of bird eggs. They possess a soft, leathery texture. The outer layer is porous and flexible, designed to absorb moisture from the surrounding substrate during the incubation period. This characteristic means the eggs are not perfectly smooth and may feel slightly rubbery to the touch.
The color is not black, despite the common name of the parent snake, but instead ranges from off-white to yellowish or cream-colored. If the eggs have been laid in damp, dark soil, they may appear dirty or stained a light tan color. Many snake eggs are elongated and oval, although they may also appear slightly flattened where they rest against one another in the clutch.
A single egg from a black rat snake or black racer typically measures between 1.5 and 3 inches long. The eggs are often naturally adhered to each other in a clump, which is a common trait for the eggs of many non-venomous snakes. If the eggs have lost some moisture due to dry conditions, they may develop a dimpled or slightly pitted surface, which does not necessarily indicate the embryo has died.
Identifying the Parent Species
Identifying the parent species is a process of elimination, which starts with recognizing that most “black snakes” in the United States that lay eggs are either Rat Snakes or Racers. Both of these species are oviparous, meaning they reproduce by laying eggs rather than giving birth to live young. For instance, the Black Racer (Coluber constrictor) is known for its smooth scales and active hunting style during the day.
Conversely, the Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) is a larger constrictor that often has a glossy black appearance and slightly keeled, or ridged, scales. It is also helpful to know that some common black snakes, such as the Common Garter Snake or Cottonmouth, are viviparous and give birth to live young. Therefore, an egg discovery in most areas of North America strongly points toward a Rat Snake or a Racer.
Where Black Snakes Lay Their Eggs
Female black snakes seek out environments that offer high humidity, consistent temperature, and protection from predators for their clutches. Common nesting sites include locations that provide natural insulation and warmth from decomposition, such as large piles of leaf litter or decaying vegetation. Garden mulch piles, sawdust heaps, or compost bins are frequently utilized because the organic matter generates heat that aids incubation.
The eggs are often deposited beneath flat rocks, rotting logs, or buried just under the soil surface in abandoned animal burrows. Black racers typically lay a clutch of 6 to 18 eggs, while black rat snakes may lay between 6 and 28 eggs in one deposit. It is not uncommon for multiple female snakes of the same or different species to use a single, ideal location, creating a communal nesting site that contains a much larger number of eggs.
Safety and Next Steps When Eggs Are Found
The most appropriate response upon finding a clutch of snake eggs is to leave them completely undisturbed. These eggs belong to non-venomous species that are beneficial to the local ecosystem, mainly as rodent control. The female snake has chosen a location with the optimal temperature and moisture levels for development, which humans may inadvertently disrupt.
It is particularly important not to rotate the eggs from the position in which they were found. Within the first few days of development, the embryo attaches itself to the inner membrane of the shell, and turning the egg can detach the embryo, which often results in its death. Even slight movement can cause the developing snake to drown within the egg.
If the eggs are located in a highly trafficked or hazardous area, such as a construction zone or near a home entrance, contact a local wildlife removal service or a reptile rescue organization. These professionals have the knowledge to assess the situation and, if necessary, safely relocate the eggs to a suitable artificial incubator or a nearby natural site. Attempting to move the eggs without proper knowledge significantly reduces the chances of the embryos surviving to hatch.