North American Racer Snakes are fast moving snakes that are found in the Northeastern States of America. Everything you need to know about them is contained in this article.

North American Racer Snakes - Facts

1. Description:

   Racer snakes are snakes that can move very fast and they usually hunt rodents and small animals in fields and forests.

2. Varieties:

   There are a few species that can be considered as racer snakes. Some of the racer snakes are the Blue Racer, Black Racer and the Buttermilk Snake. The Black Racer is differentiated into the Northern Black Racer and the Southern Racer. But there is little difference between the two.

3. History:

   The scientific name for the racer snake is Coluber Constrictor, however, they do not constrict their prey as the scientific name suggests.

4. Physical Traits:

   Racer snakes are black in color and their skin is glossy. Their chin is white or grey in color. Racer snakes can grow to a length of 30-75 inches.

5. Other Defining Characteristics:

   Racer snakes hunt with their heads held high above the ground to find the prey. Racer are very fast and will slither away when you find one.

6. Habitat:

   Racer snakes are usually found in forests, grasslands and fields. They are found in the North Eastern United States.

North American Racer Snakes - Concerns

1. Benefits:

   Racer snakes help in controlling the rodent population in the fields.

2. Liabilities:

   racer snakes are wild snakes and do not make good household pets. They cannot be handled and will try to bite if you approach them and if they are cornered. Usually they slither away when they are detected. You might need some permits if you want to have these snakes in captivity.

3. Health Issues:

   Common problems that can occur in snakes are respiratory problems, lung infections and dehydration.

4. Specific Care Needs:

   If you find a snake make sure you avoid it and don't try to approach or handle it as they might attack you. Don't try to kill snakes as they are very useful to control the rodent population.

5. Reaction to Children and other Pets:

   Racer snakes are aggressive snakes and will try to bite if children or your pets if they try to approach it. Children should be advised not to go near snakes.

6. Special Household Needs:

   You should have a first aid kit in case you have to treat a snake bite.

North American Racer Snakes - How to Choose

1. What to Look for:

   You can identify these snakes by their black color and the white chins. They hunt with their heads lifted above the ground and can be spotted easily.

2. Supplies:

   If you acquire a snake legally to be raised in captivity you will need an enclosure for the snake and the food like frogs and mice.

3. Expense:

   You cannot buy these snakes as some states consider it illegal to sell and own wild snakes.