Racer Snakes

Types of Snakes Garter Snake Identification Gopher Snake Ring-necked Snake

When you think of the phrase snake in the grass, think racer snakes (Coluber constrictor).

A vaiety of racers live in grassland areas around the United States. Most are characterized by thin bodies with solid colors. Depending on the region, they can be shades of black, brown, blue, tan or green.

The top picture shows the yellow-bellied racer, a West Coast species.

Racers are non-poisonous snakes, generally considered ill tempered. It is not a good idea to get close for a picture, because they bite first and ask questions later.

© 2008 Patricia A. Michaels