This is a very fast snake. I was only able to snap a few pictures and then it was gone. Look at the size of the eye compared to it’s body.
I thought it was a Black Rat snake, but when my husband commented on it’s speed, I started checking. The large eye and white chin, convinced me it is a Black Racer.
It is hiding in a Bougainville bush. Look at the beauty of the scales.
Compare the head to that of the Yellow Rat Snake.
You can see there is a big difference in the size of the eye. They are both beautiful snakes.
Being a speedy and active forager, large eyes help the racer find and track down prey. They are also active exclusively during the day.
ReplyDeleteRat snakes also use vision to find prey, but probably rely on other senses as well. Plus they are often found crawling around at night.
Great photos. I'm not fond of snakes, but you got some good pix!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful indeed. Lovely head shots of them.
ReplyDeleteWe don't get many snakes here unfortunatley.
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder! ;-)
ReplyDeleteI have to admire your recent snake photos but am glad they are not in my yard.