Snakes with dark bodies and yellow undersides are common. While this coloration might prompt curiosity, many are not venomous. Understanding their specific characteristics is important for accurate identification, helping distinguish species and appreciate their role in local ecosystems.
Identifying Snakes with Black Bodies and Yellow Bellies
Several North American snake species have a black or dark body with a yellow or light-colored belly. Unique features like size, scale texture, head shape, and habitat provide clues for identification, helping distinguish venomous from harmless species.
The Ring-necked Snake
The Ring-necked Snake (Diadophis punctatus) is a small, slender snake, measuring 10 to 15 inches. Its body is dark gray to black, with a distinct yellow or orange neck ring. The belly is bright yellow or orange, sometimes extending to a reddish hue under the tail. This non-venomous species has smooth, glossy scales and is found in moist woodland areas, under rocks, logs, or leaf litter.
The Yellow-bellied Racer
The Yellow-bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor flaviventris) is a thin, agile snake reaching up to 60 inches. Adults are olive-gray-green to black on the back with a plain yellow underside. Juveniles have tan or cream bodies with brown or gray blotches, gradually transitioning to adult coloration. This non-venomous snake is found in grasslands, brushlands, and woodlands across the central United States and parts of Canada.
The Eastern Rat Snake
The Eastern Rat Snake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis), also known as the Black Rat Snake, is a large, non-venomous constrictor, growing between 3.5 and 7 feet. Adults are shiny black on their back, with a white or yellow belly, and a white chin and throat. The belly has an irregular black and white checkerboard pattern, becoming more uniformly gray towards the tail. They inhabit fields, woodlands, farmlands, and suburban areas, and are excellent climbers.
The Mud Snake
The Mud Snake (Farancia abacura) is a large, non-venomous, highly aquatic snake, growing 4 to 6 feet. Its glossy black body contrasts with a red or pink and black checkerboard pattern on its belly, which can extend up the sides as triangular bars. Mud snakes have smooth, shiny scales and a distinctive spine-like scale at the tip of their tail. They are found in muddy swamps, marshes, and slow-moving water bodies across the southeastern United States.
The Eastern Coachwhip
The Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum) is a long, slender, non-venomous snake, ranging from 4 to 8 feet. While coloration varies, some appear solid black on their head, neck, and anterior third of their body, transitioning to lighter shades like tan towards the tail. The belly can also vary from all dark to dark anteriorly and light posteriorly. These snakes have large, smooth scales, giving their tail a braided, whip-like appearance. They prefer dry, open areas such as sandy fields, woodlands, and pine forests, and are known for their speed.
Encountering Snakes: Safe Practices
When encountering a snake, maintain a safe distance. Observe it from afar and avoid any attempts to handle or capture it. These animals play a role in their ecosystems, often helping to control pest populations. If a snake is in a location where it poses a direct concern and cannot move away on its own, contact local animal control or a wildlife professional.