The Eastern Rat Snake, also called the black rat snake, is a non-venomous snake commonly found in Central Florida. Although these snakes help control rodents, they can become a nuisance if they enter your home or property. If you’ve seen one or suspect a snake infestation, Wildout Animal and Pest Removal can provide fast and safe assistance.

What Is an Eastern Rat Snake?

The Eastern Rat Snake, known scientifically as Pantherophis alleghaniensis, is part of the colubrid family. This family includes many non-venomous species. These snakes are typically black with glossy scales and can grow quite large. Although the common color is black, their exact appearance can vary by age and location.

Juveniles often show more pronounced patterns that fade as they age, making younger snakes easier to identify. As they mature, their bodies become sleeker, and their color darkens. The most noticeable feature is their white chin and throat, which stands out against their otherwise dark bodies.

Eastern Rat Snakes are known for their excellent climbing ability, which allows them to scale trees, fences, and even enter attics through small openings.

Physical Characteristics of the Eastern Rat Snake

Fully grown Eastern Rat Snakes typically range between 3 to 6 feet in length, although some can reach up to 7 feet. Their bodies are long and slender, covered in smooth, glossy black scales.

In addition to their white chin and throat, their bellies are usually white or light gray, sometimes showing faint patterns. Juvenile snakes often display darker patterns along their sides and back. These patterns become less visible as they grow older.

Eastern Rat Snakes also have round pupils, distinguishing them from venomous snakes like pit vipers, which have vertical, cat-like pupils. Their muscular bodies make them efficient climbers, and their ability to coil tightly helps them catch prey.

Habitat of the Eastern Rat Snake

Eastern Rat Snakes are highly adaptable and can thrive in many environments. In Central Florida, they are commonly found in forests, grasslands, farmlands, and suburban areas. Their ability to climb and their preference for hiding places make them frequent visitors to barns, sheds, and attics.

These snakes prefer areas with plenty of cover, which helps them avoid predators and sneak up on prey. They often make their homes in woodpiles, brush piles, or other debris around residential properties. In more urban environments, they may enter homes or buildings, especially if they can find access to food sources like rodents.

Behavior and Diet of the Eastern Rat Snake

Eastern Rat Snakes are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the day. However, during the hottest months, they may shift to being more nocturnal to avoid the heat.

These snakes are constrictors, meaning they coil around their prey and squeeze it until it can no longer breathe. This makes them effective at controlling rodent populations. In addition to rodents, Eastern Rat Snakes also eat birds, bird eggs, and small mammals.

While they play a beneficial role in reducing pests, their presence in homes can become a problem. They are skilled at finding small openings in homes and buildings and will seek out warm places like attics to rest or nest.

Signs of an Eastern Rat Snake Infestation

Spotting a snake isn’t always easy. However, you can look for other signs that indicate a snake is nearby. Here are some common signs:

1. Shed Skin

As Eastern Rat Snakes grow, they shed their skin several times a year. Finding a snakeskin in your attic, garage, or yard is a strong indicator of their presence. The shed skin may vary in length, sometimes even stretching several feet. Snakes shed their skin in one piece, leaving behind a nearly complete cast of their former body. You may also find shed skin near the entry points or hiding places, signaling an area of frequent snake activity.

2. Droppings

Snake droppings are often mistaken for those of rodents. They are small but may contain visible pieces of undigested bone, fur, or feathers from their prey. Snake droppings are typically long and segmented, with a white, chalky portion that indicates uric acid excretion. Droppings are usually found along travel routes and hunting areas, such as near walls or in attics. By identifying droppings, you can confirm that a snake may be living nearby or regularly passing through.

3. Noises

Hearing unexplained rustling sounds in walls or attics may indicate that a snake is nearby. While snakes usually move silently, they can make noise when crawling through leaves, insulation, or clutter. You might hear a faint scraping sound if the snake is climbing walls or slithering over debris. The noises may be more noticeable during quiet times of the day or night when the snake is most active. These sounds can signal a snake hunting or exploring new parts of your home.

4. Rodent Population Decline

If you’ve had a rodent problem that suddenly improved without intervention, an Eastern Rat Snake might be responsible. Eastern Rat Snakes are highly skilled at hunting mice and rats, so a decrease in rodent sightings could indicate the presence of a snake. While it may seem like the rodent issue is solved, the snake’s presence can create new concerns. A lack of rodents means the snake may soon search for other food sources or nesting areas within your home.

5. Tracks and Trails

When snakes move through dusty or dirty areas, they may leave behind smooth trails. These trails, called “snake tracks,” show where the snake’s body dragged across a surface. The tracks are often found in attics, basements, or crawl spaces where snakes explore undisturbed areas. In homes with fine dust or sand, the trails may be more visible, revealing the snake’s path. Identifying these tracks can help pinpoint active areas and possible entry points.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in a professional. Eastern Rat Snakes, though non-venomous, can become defensive if threatened and may bite.

How Eastern Rat Snakes Get into Homes

Eastern Rat Snakes often enter homes or buildings while searching for food or shelter. They are excellent climbers and can squeeze through gaps as small as one inch wide. Common ways they enter include:

1. Roof Gaps

Snakes can easily enter homes through gaps in the roof or under loose shingles. Roof gaps are especially common in older homes where roofing materials have shifted or deteriorated. Once inside, they seek out dark, quiet spaces, such as attics, where they can hunt for rodents or rest undisturbed. These gaps not only allow snake entry but also offer access to other pests like squirrels and bats. Sealing roof gaps with sturdy materials can reduce the chance of a snake finding its way inside.

2. Unsealed Vents

Attic and crawl space vents can provide an easy entry point for these snakes. Many homes have unsealed or poorly screened vents, which leave a large enough gap for a snake to slither through. Unsealed vents also create a pathway for other pests like birds and rodents, further attracting snakes in search of food. Replacing old or damaged vent covers with fine mesh screens can prevent snakes from entering and nesting inside your home.

3. Cracks in Foundations

Snakes are known for squeezing through tiny cracks in foundations. This is particularly common in older homes where gaps may have developed over time. These cracks allow not only snakes but also other pests like insects and rodents to enter your home. Once inside, snakes may move freely through the walls or under floors. It’s essential to seal foundation cracks with materials like concrete or mortar to keep snakes and other wildlife from using these gaps as entry points. Regular maintenance checks can help prevent new cracks from forming.

4. Openings Around Pipes or Wires

Small spaces around plumbing pipes, electrical wiring, and other utility lines are common entry points for snakes. Over time, these gaps can widen, creating just enough space for a snake to slip through. These openings are often located in basements, crawl spaces, or near utility rooms, which are areas that tend to be dark and quiet, making them ideal hiding spots for snakes. Sealing these gaps with durable materials can effectively block entry for snakes and other pests.

5. Doors and Windows

Damaged door and window frames, or those without proper seals, provide easy access for these snakes. Gaps under exterior doors or torn window screens may leave your home vulnerable, particularly if these openings are near ground level. Eastern Rat Snakes are skilled climbers and can reach windows or doorways, even if they are off the ground. Installing weather stripping, replacing damaged screens, and ensuring that doors and windows close properly can help reduce the risk of snakes entering your home.

With the numerous ways Eastern Rat Snakes can slip into your home, addressing their removal requires careful attention and expertise. That’s why professional help is crucial for both safe removal and long-term prevention.

Why Professional Snake Removal Is Important

Attempting to remove a snake yourself can lead to injury or stress for both you and the animal. Professional removal ensures the snake is handled safely and relocated humanely. Experts like Wildout Animal and Pest Removal have the skills and equipment to locate and capture snakes efficiently. In addition to removing the snake, professionals assess how it entered your home and provide steps to prevent future infestations. This comprehensive approach reduces the likelihood of encountering snakes again, while protecting both you and the local wildlife.

Common Questions About Eastern Rat Snakes

Q1 Are Eastern Rat Snakes aggressive?

A1 Eastern Rat Snakes are generally shy and will avoid humans. However, they may become defensive and bite if cornered or handled. Their bite isn’t usually life-threatening but can be painful and may lead to infection. They typically prefer to flee rather than engage with humans, but if they feel threatened, they may coil and strike as a warning.

Q2 What should I do if I find an Eastern Rat Snake?

A2 If you encounter an Eastern Rat Snake, keep your distance and contact Wildout Animal and Pest Removal. Attempting to remove the snake yourself can be risky, both for you and the snake. Our team will safely capture and relocate the snake. In the meantime, avoid disturbing the snake or trying to catch it, as this could provoke a defensive bite.

Q3 How can I tell an Eastern Rat Snake apart from a Southern Black Racer?

A3 Both the Eastern Rat Snake and the Southern Black Racer are black, non-venomous, and have a white chin and throat. However, there are distinct differences between the two. Eastern Rat Snakes have a bulkier, more muscular body and often grow between 3 to 6 feet in length. They also may display faint crossbands or patterns, especially when young, and have shinier, more pronounced scales.

Southern Black Racers, on the other hand, are slimmer, faster, and usually have a smoother, matte black appearance with no visible patterns, even as juveniles. Another behavioral difference is that when threatened, Southern Black Racers are more likely to flee quickly, while Eastern Rat Snakes tend to remain still or coil defensively when cornered.

Why Choose Wildout Animal and Pest Removal?

At Wildout Animal and Pest Removal, we specialize in safe and humane wildlife management. Here’s why you should trust us for your snake removal needs:

1. Prompt Service

We understand the urgency of snake removal, and our team responds quickly to every call. We prioritize fast action because we know that snake encounters can be alarming for homeowners. Whether it’s an Eastern Rat Snake or another species, we arrive equipped to handle the situation. Our prompt response ensures that your home is safe as soon as possible, minimizing your concerns and protecting your family.

2. Safe and Humane Practices

We follow all state and federal guidelines for the safe and humane removal of snakes and other wildlife. Our professionals are committed to ethical treatment of wildlife, which means removing snakes without causing harm. We use specialized tools and techniques to capture the snake safely. Our humane approach not only protects the snake but also contributes to preserving Florida’s natural ecosystem.

3. Comprehensive Inspections

We conduct thorough inspections to identify the root cause of your snake issue. By locating entry points, such as gaps in the roof or foundation, and identifying food sources like rodents, we address the underlying problems that attract snakes. Our inspections go beyond simple removal. We offer long-term solutions to keep your home free of snakes and other wildlife. We provide detailed recommendations for future prevention based on our findings.

4. Long-Term Solutions

Wildout’s ongoing snake control programs provide comprehensive protection for your property. These programs involve regularly maintaining snake traps, applying snake repellents, and conducting thorough inspections to monitor snake activity. In addition to these services, we offer preventative measures such as sealing entry points and advising on yard maintenance. Our team provides ongoing support, giving you peace of mind that your home remains safe over time.

5. Experienced Team

With years of experience dealing with Florida wildlife, our team provides reliable and effective services. We’ve handled a variety of snake species, including Eastern Rat Snakes, and have developed expert strategies for safe removal. Our deep understanding of local wildlife allows us to assess and solve snake problems quickly and efficiently. When you hire Wildout, you’re getting a team that knows how to handle even the most challenging wildlife issues.

By choosing Wildout Animal and Pest Removal, you’re not just solving a current snake issue. You are also securing long-term protection for your home. Our commitment to effective, humane solutions means you can trust us to handle your wildlife problems with care and professionalism.

Contact Wildout Animal and Pest Removal Today!

If you suspect an Eastern Rat Snake is on your property, don’t wait! Contact Wildout Animal and Pest Removal today. Our expert team is ready to assess the situation and provide fast, safe removal. We offer solutions that protect your home from future wildlife intrusions. Call us today and let us handle your wildlife problem with care and professionalism.

Contact Us:

Wildout Animal and Pest Removal

Lakeland

863-315-WILD (315-9453)

Orlando

407-465-WILD (465-9453)

Tampa

813-WILDOUT (945-3688)

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