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About Black Snakes
The name “black snake” can refer to different types of snakes. However, the most common is Pantherophis obsoletus. P. obsoletus is actually known by several names other than black snake, including western rat snake, black rat snake, and pilot black snake. One of the most important things to know about the black snake is that it is a non-venomous species. This means that although their bite can still cause a reaction or even an infection, it isn’t as dangerous as a species like the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, which is the most venomous snake in the United States. As nonvenomous snakes, black snakes can’t rely on any type of venom to protect themselves. As a result, they’ve developed different ways to protect themselves from predators – that is, when the preferred method of fleeing fails. First, black rat snakes are able to produce a foul-smelling musk. This is a tactic evolved by many different types of non venomous snakes that often fail prey to larger, more dangerous species. When they’re feeling frightened, the black rat snake can release this smell as a way to make predators think twice about whether or not they actually want to eat something with that stench. Black snakes have also evolved to mimic rattlesnakes. Although they don’t have the same rattler that these venomous species do, black snakes have learned to shake their tail in a similar way.
Appearance
The black snake can be easy to mix up with other snakes due to its solid black coloration. However, they are distinct in their size. Black snakes are some of the longest snakes in North America. In fact, some sources state that they are the longest. The largest black snake ever was 8.5 feet long, the longest snake ever officially recorded in North America. Unofficially, a black pine snake measured in at 9.25 feet long.
Diet
The black rat snake has a diet that mainly consists of rodents. This includes mice, rats, and squirrels. However, this isn’t the only thing you’ll find on their menu. Black snakes also eat lizards, amphibians, and bird eggs.
Where to find Black Snakes in Louisiana?
Black snakes are a fairly adaptable species. This means that the black snakes in Louisiana live in a variety of different types of habitats. However, in this state, the most common places to find black snakes include plains and forests.
Black Snake Bites
Because black snakes aren’t venomous, their bites aren’t considered a medical emergency. However, you still shouldn’t ignore the wound. Like with any type of bite, a black snake’s bite can become infected, posing a greater risk.
Other Types of Black Snakes in Louisiana
Although Pantherophis obsoletus is the most common type of black snake in Louisiana, there are snakes with a black coloration. This includes:
Southern Ringneck Snake (Diadophis punctatus punctatus)North American Racer (Coluber constrictor)Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus)Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)Gulf Coast Ribbon Snake (Thamnophis proximus orarius)Black Pine Snake (Pituophis melanoleucus lodingi)Mud Snake (Farancia abacura)Western Mud Snake (Farancia abacura reinwardtii)Black King Snake (Lampropeltis nigra)Eastern Coachwhip (Masticophis flagellum flagellum).
Some of these snakes may be black but also feature different colors. For example, the common garter snake and the Gulf coast ribbon snake are both black or grey snakes similar to the black rat snake. However, they also feature bright white or yellow lines running down the tops and sides of their body. It’s also important that other black species of snake may share the common name of “black snake”. This is one reason that it may be hard to differentiate species based on name alone, unless you use their scientific name. Thankfully, solid black snakes like the black rat snake are rarely venomous. This means that, in the case of a bite, identification is not as urgent as antivenom isn’t needed. There are some venomous snakes in Louisiana with black markings, however. One of the most notable is the Texas coral snake (Micrurus tener).
Can Black Snakes in Louisiana be Kept as Pets?
It isn’t recommended to keep wild animals, especially snakes, as pets. Wild animals are entirely different from domesticated pets or pet animals born in captivity. Not only can it be dangerous, or even illegal, to attempt to catch and keep a black snake in Louisiana, it’s not healthy for the snake either. Wild snakes that are caught and then turned to pets often fail to thrive.
What to Do if You Find a Black Snake in Louisiana?
If you happen to find a nonvenomous black snake in Louisiana, it’s best to just leave them alone. They won’t bite unless threatened, and it can be dangerous for you and them if you attempt to engage them. Left alone, black snakes will usually continue to mind their business. If a black snake is in your home or business, there are local officials who may be able to offer better help in safely removing the snake.
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What Do Black Snakes (Western Rat Snakes) Eat? Are Black Snakes Poisonous or Dangerous? Types of Black Snakes
