Black Racers: Friend or Foe?
The southern black racer is one of the most common snakes in Northeast Florida yards, and it is not venomous.
What they actually are
Black racers are slender, solid black (sometimes with a white or gray chin), fast-moving, and active during the day, which is exactly why homeowners see them so often. They are not one of the six venomous species found in Florida.
Why they get mistaken for something worse
Speed and a defensive coiled posture make racers look more threatening than they are. They will vibrate their tail against dry leaves when startled, which can sound like a rattle, adding to the confusion with rattlesnakes.
The upside of having them around
Racers eat rodents, insects, and other small pests around a property. If one is passing through a yard, it usually is not a removal situation. If one is repeatedly getting inside the home itself, that is when it is worth a call so we can find and seal the entry point.