Exploring the Black Snakes of Missouri

Everything You Need To Know About These Reptiles

Missouri is home to a great variety of wildlife, including many species of snakes. Black snakes are among the most abundant and visible of these slithering creatures. The state is home to several species of black snakes, including the Eastern Black Kingsnake and the Western Fox Snake. This article will explore what these snakes look like, where they live, and how to distinguish them from other snakes.

Eastern Black Kingsnake

The Eastern Black Kingsnake is a large, non-venomous snake native to the state of Missouri. It is a constrictor, meaning that it kills its prey by squeezing them with its powerful muscles. These snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas. They are a shiny black color with white or yellowish stripes running down their bodies. The Eastern Black Kingsnake is usually between three and five feet in length.

Western Fox Snake

The Western Fox Snake is a medium-sized, non-venomous snake native to the state of Missouri. It is a constrictor, meaning that it kills its prey by squeezing them with its powerful muscles. These snakes can be found in a variety of habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas. They are usually a light to medium brown color with darker brown spots. The Western Fox Snake is usually between two and four feet in length.

Distinguishing Between the Two

The Eastern Black Kingsnake and the Western Fox Snake are often difficult to distinguish from one another. However, there are a few characteristics that can be used to tell them apart. The Eastern Black Kingsnake has a smooth and shiny black body with white or yellowish stripes, while the Western Fox Snake has a lighter, more mottled brown body with darker brown spots. Additionally, the Eastern Black Kingsnake is usually larger than the Western Fox Snake.

Habitat and Behaviour

Both the Eastern Black Kingsnake and the Western Fox Snake can be found in a variety of habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas. They are active during the day and spend much of their time sunning themselves. In the summer months, they can often be found near water sources, as they are excellent swimmers. They feed primarily on small mammals, birds, and other snakes.

Conclusion

The state of Missouri is home to two species of black snakes, the Eastern Black Kingsnake and the Western Fox Snake. These snakes can be difficult to distinguish from one another, but they can be told apart by their size, color, and pattern. Both species are non-venomous and can be found in a variety of habitats, from open grasslands to wooded areas. They are active during the day and feed primarily on small mammals, birds, and other snakes.