Rat snakes are medium to large snakes that can be found mostly in the Northern Hemisphere. They feed primarily on rodents and birds, and are on the top levels of some food chains.

Many species of rat snakes make attractive pets and are the most popular reptile pets in the world.

Like all snakes, they can be defensive when approached too closely, handled, or restrained. However, rat snake bites are not dangerous to humans.

Rat Snake Facts:

• The black rat snake usually is about 4 feet long, but may exceed 8 feet.

• When frightened, rat snakes may freeze, which is why many are killed on roadways.

• Rat snakes are semiarboreal, which means they spend some of their time in trees.

• While rat snakes are nocturnal in warm areas, they are still active during the day fairly frequently.

These little belly-creepers are available for 2 week checkout through the Living Science Material Center CO-OP page to help enhance teaching activities.