Black Racer – 1/11/20

Observer: Marcia Tranavitch

Observation Date: 1/11/20

Observation Time: mid-day

Observation Location: on top of Pierce’s Hill on the Warner Trail (which is also the Bay Circuit Trail at this point)

Common Name: Black racer

Scientific Name: Coluber constrictor

Comments: Reptiles are cold-blooded so they warm themselves by basking. This black racer was seen sunning itself on a warm winter day. It didn’t stretch out for me but I would estimate it was about 2 feet long. This must be a young one because lack racers can reach 5 feet in length.

Although they are not venemous, black racers are fast (hence their name) and can be aggressive toward humans.

More Information: Snakes of Massachusetts