Photo: Kristof Zyskowski & Yulia Bereshpolova, CC BY 2.0
← All snakes
Non-venomous
Non-venomous
Eastern Rat Snake
Pantherophis alleghaniensis
- How to spot it
- In Northeast Florida usually yellowish to gray with four dark stripes down the body.
- Where you’ll see it
- Trees, barns, attics, sheds and woodpiles. An excellent climber.
- What it eats
- Rats, mice, birds and eggs.
- Good to know
- Often found up high. When nervous it may vibrate its tail in leaves. Non-venomous, and great rodent control.
- Often confused with
- Rattlesnakes, because of the tail vibrating. Rat snakes have no rattle.
Questions
Is the Eastern Rat Snake venomous?
No. The Eastern Rat Snake is non-venomous. Leave it alone and give it space, and it will move on. If you need it moved, text a photo to (904) 895-7773.
Where is the Eastern Rat Snake found in Florida?
Trees, barns, attics, sheds and woodpiles. An excellent climber.
Want it moved?
Text a photo and where you are to (904) 895-7773. We will tell you what it is, and help if it needs to move.
