Black Racers

The Black Racer is one of the most common snakes in eastern North America. It is an opportunistic hunter of mice, shrews, birds, lizards, amphibians, insects and other creatures. True to its name, it can be fast moving, but frequently raises its head to keep an eye out for prey and potential danger from other predators. As adults these snakes are slender, black above with a white chin and belly, and very smooth scales that give it a slightly shiny satin appearance above. These snakes breed in spring and their eggs hatch in late summer or early fall. Young black racers are quite different from adults, having smooth gray scales covered with a pattern of brown blotches that likely help them blend into their environment.