Reptile & Amphibian Forums

This snake was found in the building that I work in and I need some help identifying it.

Thanks,
Andy

From the looks of it, I think you are in Maine. If that is the case, then that is a juvenile Northern Black Racer. They go through a color change as they get older. Considered endangered in Maine
http://www.state.me.us/ifw/wildlife/etweb/group/bracer.htm

Coincidently, I am in Maine right now on travle :-p But this picture was taken in Maryland where I live and work.

Andy

Still would be a Northern Black Racer Coluber constrictor constrictor.

Hi Andy –

People who stop in here for help with I.D.’s often omit one basic bit of information with startling frequency – on what part of the planet the animal was found. Even worse is when they don’t supply photographs! So, some people occasionally try to fill in the blanks in the former case by looking at the poster’s i.p. address or ISP.

Your juvenile racer is harmless, but they have plenty of tiny teeth and will usually try to defend themselves vigorously. They generally make poor captives unless you have some experience with reptiles. Although the link below shows Illinois specimens, both juvenile and adults are pictured, and are the same subspecies as you have.

-Joan

northern black racer

Thanks for the help

Andy

It's a baby black racer.

-Brandon