In the United States there are dozens of species of snakes and only a small handful are considered poisonous. The gray rat snake is not one of them.
Gray rat snakes are non-venomous meaning they do not have poison in their fangs or saliva that can harm humans or other animals. These snakes are constrictors meaning they kill their prey by wrapping their bodies around it and squeezing it until it stops breathing.
While gray rat snakes are not poisonous they can still be dangerous. These snakes are often aggressive and their bites can be painful. If a gray rat snake bites you it is important to seek medical attention immediately.
There are many ways to tell if a snake is poisonous or not. One is to look at the shape of its head. Poisonous snakes have triangular-shaped heads while non-venomous snakes have round heads.
Another way to tell if a snake is poisonous is to look at the placement of its eyes. Poisonous snakes have eyes that are set close together while non-venomous snakes have eyes that are set far apart.
If you are ever unsure whether a snake is poisonous or not the best thing to do is to leave it alone and call a professional.
Are gray rat snakes poisonous?
No gray rat snakes are not poisonous.
What kind of snake is a gray rat snake?
A gray rat snake is a nonvenomous snake.
Where do gray rat snakes live?
Gray rat snakes are found in the eastern United States.
What do gray rat snakes eat?
Gray rat snakes eat rodents such as rats and mice.
How big do gray rat snakes get?
Gray rat snakes can grow to be 3 to 8 feet long.
What color are gray rat snakes?
Gray rat snakes are usually gray with black stripes or blotches.
Are gray rat snakes aggressive?
No gray rat snakes are not aggressive.
How long do gray rat snakes live?
Gray rat snakes typically live for 10 to 12 years.
What is the habitat of a gray rat snake?
Gray rat snakes prefer wooded areas with plenty of hiding places.
Do gray rat snakes hibernate?
Yes gray rat snakes hibernate in the winter.
How do gray rat snakes mate?
Gray rat snakes mate in the spring.
The female lays 10 to 30 eggs in June or July.
How do gray rat snakes give birth?
Gray rat snakes lay eggs which they incubate for about 60 days.
The young snakes hatch in August or September.
How do gray rat snakes defend themselves?
If threatened gray rat snakes may vibrate their tails and strike.
They will also release a foul-smelling musk from their anal glands.
What predators do gray rat snakes have?
Gray rat snakes are preyed upon by birds of prey such as hawks and owls.
Are gray rat snakes endangered?
No gray rat snakes are not endangered.
