Identification
The
Black Rat Snake, E. o. obsoleta, is a long, strong-bodied snake ranging
from 42 to 72 inches in length. It is mostly black in color, other than the
scales around its mouth, which are white. The belly is gray with dark checkerboard
markings. The young are yellow or white in color with patterns of dark gray
blotches on their backs alternating with smaller blotches on the sides. Adults
generally retain some degree of the blotched juvenile coloring throughout a
part or all of their lives. The body tends to be squarer than round in cross
section. A conspecific of the Black Rat Snake, the Gray Rat Snake, E. o.
spiloides, is found in extreme southwest Indiana. They are mostly dark
to medium gray in color with brown or gray blotches. The darker blotches vary
in color, but always contrast with the lighter background color. Similar species
include: Black
Kingsnake, Racer
Ecology
The Black Rat Snake can be found throughout Indiana in rocky hillsides, open woods, dry prairies and stream valleys. The Black Rat Snake is a very good climber and often climbs trees to eat nestling birds or eggs. Its diet consists mainly of rodents, birds, and bird eggs. The habits of Black and Gray Rat Snakes are very similar. Other names include cow snake, chicken snake, timber snake, black snake, and black climber. Perhaps because of their size and constricting capabilities, these snakes are perceived by many to be a threat to people. This is totally unfounded.
Distribution and Status
The Black Rate Snake is found throughout Indiana, while the Gray Rat Snake is found in the southwest portion of the state. Both species are considered common
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499