Ratsnakes are a large group of colubrid snakes that feed primarily on rodents. They are found throughout the Americas Asia and Europe. Despite their name many species do not eat rats instead preferring other small mammals such as squirrels mice and voles. Some species such as the black rat snake and the yellow rat snake will also eat birds and bird eggs. A few species such as the corn snake and the garter snake are mostly vegetarian eating mostly insects and other invertebrates.
Ratsnakes are generally non-venomous and have long flexible bodies and blunt tails. They vary greatly in size with some species reaching over 3 m (10 ft) in length. The majority of ratsnake species are patterned with dark brown gray or black bodies and lighter-colored bellies. Some species such as the corn snake and the king snake have brightly-colored patterns that can be quite striking.
Ratsnakes are generally shy and non-aggressive snakes but they will defend themselves if they feel threatened. They are not considered dangerous to humans but their bites can be painful and may cause swelling and bruising. If you are bitten by a ratsnake clean the wound with soap and water and seek medical attention if the swelling persists or if you develop a fever.
What is the maximum length a rat snake can grow to?
The maximum length a rat snake can grow to is 4 feet.
What do rat snakes typically eat?
Rat snakes typically eat rodents such as rats and mice.
Where do rat snakes typically live?
Rat snakes typically live in North America in areas such as forests fields and swamps.
Are rat snakes venomous?
Rat snakes are not venomous and therefore cannot hurt you with poison.
Can rat snakes bite you?
Rat snakes can bite you but their bites are not poisonous and will not cause you serious harm.
How do rat snakes kill their prey?
Rat snakes kill their prey by constricting them which means they wrap their bodies around the prey until it suffocates.
What does the rat snake use to sense its prey?
The rat snake uses heat-sensing pits to locate its prey.
What is the rat snake’s natural predators?
The rat snake’s natural predators are animals such as hawks owls and foxes.
How does the rat snake defend itself against predators?
The rat snake defends itself against predators by biting and striking.
What does the rat snake do when it feels threatened?
When a rat snake feels threatened it will often coil up its body and strike at the threat.
What is the rat snake’s lifespan?
The lifespan of a rat snake is typically 10-12 years but some snakes have been known to live up to 20 years.
How often does the rat snake shed its skin?
The rat snake sheds its skin 1-2 times a year.
What is the rat snake’s reproduction process?
The rat snake’s reproduction process is oviparous which means that they lay eggs.
How many eggs does the rat snake typically lay?
The rat snake typically lays 5-20 eggs at a time.
When do the rat snake’s eggs hatch?
The rat snake’s eggs typically hatch within 2-4 weeks.
