BLACK RACER
DESCRIPTION: The Racer is one of the largest snakes in New England. When mature it can reach lengths of 36-60” and has been recorded close to 73” (over 6 feet). This is a sleek smooth scaled, all black snake with a light throat and underbelly, usually white or grayish blue. Juvenile racers are slate blue with dark ovals to their pattern, as they mature they turn black.
HABITAT: The racers can be found in grasslands, open woodland, rocky wooded hillsides and grass bordered streams. Although they are capable climbers they prefer to use their speed on the ground to capture their prey, which includes small mammals, frogs, lizards and snakes.
SPEED is the racers first defense to avoid danger, but if cornered this snake will vibrate its tail causing a buzzing sound to mimic a rattler. If grabbed this snake will bite (remember all snakes have teeth!) thrash about and release a very odorous musk.
Sometimes MOTHER NATURE gets called upon to help a snake in need. This 58 inch Racer (below) was injured at a construction site. He is doing well and our hopes are to return him in a few weeks to a new home in the wild. We expect he will recover fully in about 2 weeks.
6'2" Tim with 5'8" Racer below.
New Baby Racer. Racers change to the all black pattern as they mature.
Talk about nippy--wow he would not stop striking at the camera!
