Pantherophis alleghaniensis (non-venomous)

Rat snakes are large (up to 5 feet long), non-venomous snakes that occur throughout Florida.  The color pattern of rat snakes is extremely variable with some being completely yellow, some being yellow with black stripes, some being gray with dark saddles, and others being a mix in between.  Scientists are currently examining the taxonomy of rat snakes because the color variation appears to be separated geographically too.  The rat snakes in our neighborhood have a yellow color and four dark stripes that run the length of the snake.  Rat snakes can be found in almost any habitat that has abundant prey such as lizards, frogs, rodents, rabbits and birds.  Because of their adaptability, they are frequently seen around farms and residential areas.