Reptile & Amphibian Forums

I was surprised by a snake under my peony bushes this morning. My home is in Central Maryland, and backs to the Patuxent Wildlife Refuge (river; big, old trees). I'm writing because I've never seen this type of snake before, and was wondering what it is. I've checked about 10 different resources, but no luck. The snake I found was about a foot long and a little thicker than a pencil; I'm wondering if the juveniles look different from the adults. The pictures I took are at http://www.villagephotos.com/pubbrowse.asp?folder_id=1352988 I'm sorry they don't show more detail, but the snake kept striking and I didn't want to get too close. On a related note, do non-venomous snakes curl up and strike? Thanks, Amanda

PS- The snake was released (far away) in the woods.

Many nonvenomous snakes will strike at perceived threats. This one appears to be a juvenile Black rat snake, which is non-venomous.

I agree with Eric. Baby black rat. Many non-venomous snakes will not only coil & strike to defend themselves, but will also rattle their tails. This snake may grow to a length of over seven feet. It will no doubt consume thousands of rodents in its lifetime. Releasing it where you found it is probably the order of the day.

~~Greg~~

>>I agree with Eric. Baby black rat. Many non-venomous snakes will not only coil & strike to defend themselves, but will also rattle their tails. This snake may grow to a length of over seven feet. It will no doubt consume thousands of rodents in its lifetime. Releasing it where you found it is probably the order of the day.
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>> ~~Greg~~
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Chris Harrison