Overview of Southern Black Racer
The Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus) is a large, sturdy snake found in the southeastern United States. While their vibrant black and white color makes them one of the most beautiful snakes to watch, these reptiles have a fierce reputation for being hostile toward predators. Due to this impressive disposition and lack of natural predators, Southern Black Racers have become a popular species for many snake enthusiasts.
Habitat and Range
The Southern Black Racer is found in a range that extends from the Atlantic coast of Virginia to the eastern border of Texas. With their swampy habitats and warm climates, they are most common in southern portions of states such as North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, and Mississippi. They are also occasionally spotted in parts of Georgia and Louisiana. Southern Black Racers favor wooded areas, but they can also be found in open or semi-open areas such as grasslands, wetlands, and parks.
Appearance
When fully grown, Southern Black Racers can reach lengths of three to five feet. Juveniles are born with silver-grey scales but will develop their signature black color with age. Their scales are quite rough, which give the snakes a velvety texture. The underside of the snake is light gray or cream-colored. A unique feature that sets the Southern Black Racer apart from other snakes is the white line running along their sides. This line is especially noticeable in young Racers, but can often fade with age.
Behavior and Diet
Southern Black Racers are diurnal, meaning that they are active during the day. These snakes have been observed preying on lizards, salamanders, frogs, insects, rodents, and even small birds. Southern Black Racers are also powerful swimmers and climbers, due to their slender bodies and long jaws. They are very swift and often use their speed to catch their prey.
Reproduction
Southern Black Racers usually mate between April and June and the female can lay up to 20 eggs in the late summer. The eggs hatch after 40-60 days, depending on the weather.
Once born, the baby Racers are just 2-3 inches long and are very independent creatures. They will often go off in search of their own meals that may include crickets, worms, and small frogs.
Predators
Southern Black Racers have few predators in their natural habitats. humans, raptors, and some cats are known to hunt the racers but due to their alertness and speed, they are capable of escaping.
Threats
The main threat to the southern black racer is habitat destruction and fragmentation. These snakes can often be found in suburban neighborhoods and as such, human interaction can have a negative impact on their populations. Decreasing prey populations, as well as road traffic, can also be detrimental.
Conservation
The Southern Black Racer is considered a common species and is not listed as endangered or threatened. Despite this fact, they are protected by conservation laws in some U.S. states. Conservation efforts have been made to ensure that these snakes have proper habitats in which to survive.
Conclusion
The Southern Black Racer is a sleek, sturdy snake that makes an excellent pet and a great addition to any garden or backyard. Given their resilient nature and ease of care, it’s no surprise that these snakes have become popular in many different regions. With proper monitoring and conservation efforts, the numbers of this species can be maintained for many years to come.