We're reaching into the archives for today's #BenInNature update presented by our friends at ...

April 17, 2021

We're reaching into the archives for today's #BenInNature update presented by our friends at Carter Bank & Trust! The following post was originally published on June 11, 2020.

This is Pantherophis alleghaniensis, commonly known as the eastern ratsnake. The eastern ratsnake and the black racer are two similar-looking snakes that are often lumped together as "black snakes." Eastern ratsnakes are generally duller, while black racers have a glossier appearance. Also, eastern ratsnakes generally have ridged or "keeled" scales while racers have smooth scales.

A lot of people hate both varieties of snake (and snakes in general), but these snakes do a great job of keeping rodent populations in check. So if you don't like having mice in your house, you should thank a black snake the next time you see one!

Thank you to Jason Gibson of the Virginia Herpetological Society for this ID!

ABOUT #BenInNature
Social distancing can be difficult, but it presents a great opportunity to become reacquainted with nature. In this series of posts, Administrator of Science Ben Williams ventures outdoors to record a snapshot of the unique sights that can be found in the natural world. New updates are posted Monday - Friday, with previous posts highlighted on the weekends. This series of posts is made possible thanks to the support of VMNH Corporate Partner Carter Bank & Trust (www.cbtcares.com).

NATURE PHOTO IDENTIFICATIONS
If you discover something in nature that you would like help identifying, be sure to message us right here on Facebook with a picture (please include location and date of picture) and we'll have our experts help you identify it!