The Common Names: Rat Snake and Its Colubrid Family

Introduction

The rat snake is a fascinating reptile that belongs to the colubrid family of snakes. With its distinctive appearance and behavior, the rat snake is commonly found throughout Florida and other parts of the United States. In this article, we will explore the common names of the rat snake, its classification within the colubrid family, and some interesting facts about this species.

Common Names of the Rat Snake

The rat snake is known by various common names, depending on the region and specific species. Some of the most commonly used names for the rat snake include:

1. Rat Snake: This is the most straightforward and commonly used name for this species. It refers to the snake’s preferred diet of rats and rodents.

2. Corn Snake: This name is usually associated with the Pantherophis guttatus species of rat snake. It is derived from the snake’s habit of inhabiting cornfields, where it can find an ample supply of rodents.

3. Chicken Snake: This name is sometimes used to describe rat snakes that are found near chicken coops or barns. They are often mistaken for harmful species and killed by farmers trying to protect their poultry.

4. Black Rat Snake: This name refers to the black-colored morphs of the rat snake, which are more common in certain regions. These snakes are known for their impressive size and strength.

Classification within the Colubrid Family

The rat snake belongs to the subfamily Colubrinae of the family Colubridae. The Colubridae family is the largest family of snakes, with over 249 genera and countless species. It is known for its diverse range of snakes, including kingsnakes, milk snakes, vine snakes, and indigo snakes.

The Colubrinae subfamily is a subgroup within the Colubridae family that includes the rat snake. This subfamily is characterized by its non-venomous snakes, which often have a slender body shape and smooth scales. They are primarily found in North America, but some species are also distributed throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Species of Rat Snakes

There are many species of rat snakes belonging to the Colubrinae subfamily. Some of the most well-known and commonly encountered species in Florida include:

1. Pantherophis obsoletus: Also known as the Eastern Rat Snake or Black Rat Snake, this species is one of the largest rat snakes found in North America. It can reach lengths of up to 8 feet and is known for its glossy black coloration.

2. Pantherophis alleghaniensis: This species, also known as the Eastern Ratsnake or Black Racer, is commonly found in wooded areas and can climb trees with ease. It is known for its agility and speed.

3. Pantherophis emoryi: The Great Plains Rat Snake, also known as Emory’s Rat Snake, is found in the southeastern United States, including Florida. It is highly adaptable and can thrive in a range of habitats.

4. Pantherophis guttatus: The Corn Snake, also known as the Red Rat Snake, is one of the most popular pet snakes in the world. It is named after its habit of being found in corn fields, where it feeds on rodents.

Interesting Facts about Rat Snakes

Now that we have covered the common names and classification of rat snakes, let’s delve into some interesting facts about this species:

1. Hunting Behavior: Rat snakes are excellent climbers and are often found in trees, where they search for bird eggs and small mammals. They are also known for their excellent climbing abilities, which allow them to access nests and roosting sites.

2. Constrictor Snakes: Rat snakes are non-venomous constrictor snakes, meaning they use their muscular bodies to suffocate and overpower their prey. They squeeze their prey until it cannot breathe, then swallow it whole.

3. Protective Mothers: Female rat snakes are known to exhibit maternal care towards their eggs. After laying their eggs, the mothers will guard them from predators, regulate temperature, and even shiver to generate heat and ensure proper incubation.

4. Varied Diet: While rat snakes primarily feed on rodents, they are opportunistic hunters and will consume a wide variety of prey. This includes birds, eggs, lizards, frogs, and even other snakes.

Conclusion

The rat snake, a member of the colubrid family, is a diverse and fascinating species with various common names. From the Eastern Rat Snake to the Corn Snake, each species has unique characteristics and behaviors that make them a significant part of Florida’s ecosystem. Understanding their common names and classification within the colubrid family helps us appreciate the importance of conserving these incredible reptiles.