The Eastern Rat Snake is an excellent climber and a valuable predator of rodents. Adults are typically black with white chin and throat. It vibrates its tail when threatened, mimicking a rattlesnake.
Habitat
Forests, farmlands, swamps, and abandoned buildings
Diet
Rodents, birds, bird eggs, and occasionally lizards
How common
Common
Best time to see a Eastern Rat Snake
The best time to see a Eastern Rat Snake is April–June, when about 61% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 27,712 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
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Often confused with
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63national parks
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