“Black Snake” may refer to the racing black snake in the United States.
A black snake is typically one of several different species of snake found throughout the world, in various countries, and usually labeled according to their coloration. While it is not a scientific name for any species of snake, different regions often use the term to refer to the different types of snakes that are common in that region. In the United States (US), the term black snake usually refers to the black rat snake or black pilot, and in Australia it can be used as a shorthand name for the red-bellied black snake commonly found throughout the eastern part. of the country world.
“Black snake” may refer to the red-bellied black snake that can be found in Australia.
The most common usage of black snake in the United States generally refers to the black rat snake, also called the pilot snake. This is a non-venomous snake that is a type of constrictor and is typically found in mountainous areas of North America. As with other types of rat snakes, black rat snakes generally feed on mice, rats, and other small rodents and are not typically aggressive towards people and other larger animals. When frightened, they will sometimes rapidly vibrate their stories among dead leaves to mimic the sounds of a rattlesnake, and will usually run away rather than attack a larger animal or person.
A juvenile black rat snake.
Another common use of the black snake in the United States refers to the black pilot, which is similar in color and appearance to the black rat snake, but only with a white chin and a mostly dark belly. While black rat snakes and black pilots are black in color with a lighter underside, the black pilot is more distinctly black with less coloration than black rat snakes normally have. Young black racers, however, are lighter and are generally light brown in color before aging and darkening to a more conspicuous black color. While black rat snakes are more likely to freeze and remain stationary when approached, black pilots tend to flee quickly. They can also bite, although they are not poisonous, if they are cornered or stepped on.
Black snakes generally feed on mice.
The Australian red-bellied black snake, however, is quite venomous and great care must be taken when approaching this type of black snake. Very common in eastern Australia, this snake can often be found by unsuspecting walkers along waterways, such as rivers, or under rocks and fallen wood. While they are not particularly aggressive and will generally run away when approached, they will attack if they feel threatened or if they are unable to run away. While there are no known deaths from this snake, its venom is still quite toxic and anyone who has been bitten should seek emergency care immediately.