All About The Black Racer Snakes in Florida
The Basics of Florida's Black Racers
The black racer snake is a common species of nonvenomous snake that can be found throughout the Southeastern United States, including in the state of Florida. These snakes are typically solid black in color but may also be gray, brown, or olive in hue. Black racer snakes can grow to a length of up to 5 feet, but the average length is typically between 3 and 4 feet. They are active during the day and feed mainly on small rodents, lizards, and frogs.
Where to Find Black Racers in Florida
Black racer snakes can be found in many areas of Florida, but they are most common in the northern and central parts of the state. They can be found in wooded areas, fields, and marshes, and they are often seen near water. These snakes are usually solitary creatures but they may form small groups when the weather is cold.
The Behavior of Black Racers in Florida
Black racer snakes are usually shy and non-aggressive. They will usually flee when they sense an approaching human and will rarely bite. However, if a black racer does become agitated, it may coil up and vibrate its tail as a warning sign. Despite their intimidating behavior, black racer snakes are harmless to humans.
Tips for Dealing with Black Racers in Florida
If you encounter a black racer snake in your yard or home, the best thing to do is to leave it alone and give it a wide berth. If you need to move the snake away from your property, the best way to do so is by using a long stick or broom to gently guide it in the desired direction. Never attempt to handle a black racer snake as they can become defensive if they feel threatened.
Common Misconceptions About Black Racers in Florida
Many people mistakenly believe that black racer snakes are venomous, but this is not true. These snakes are harmless and their bites are not dangerous. Additionally, some people believe that black racer snakes will chase humans, but this is not true either. These snakes are usually quite timid and will flee when they sense the presence of a human.
Conclusion
The black racer snake is a common species of snake found in the state of Florida. These snakes are typically harmless and non-aggressive, and they will usually flee when they sense an approaching human. If you do encounter one of these snakes in your yard or home, the best thing to do is to leave it alone and give it a wide berth.
References
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. (2018). Black Racer. Retrieved from https://myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/wildlife/reptiles/black-racer/.
Raithel, M. (n.d.). How to Deal with Black Racer Snakes. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/black-racer-snake-profile-4120973