A widely distributed species of non-venomous snake found predominantly in the eastern United States. Known for its exceptional speed and agility, the Eastern racer is aptly named as one of the fastest snakes in North America, capable of moving up to 6 km/h (4 mph). This speed is a key asset in escaping predators and catching prey, making it a formidable presence in its natural habitat.

Eastern racers possess a smooth scale texture and vary in color from gray or black to brown, olive, or even blue, with the underside usually being lighter, ranging from white to yellow. Younger Eastern Racers, however, display a markedly different pattern with a gray background and brown blotches, which they lose as they mature.

One of the most striking behaviors of the Eastern racer is its curiosity. It often investigates disturbances in its immediate vicinity by raising the front part of its body off the ground. This behavior not only allows it to survey its surroundings but also to spot potential threats and opportunities from a distance. Despite their name and potential for speed, Eastern racers are also capable of climbing shrubs and low branches, which they do both in search of prey and to bask in the sun.

Eastern racers are diurnal, which means they are active during the day. They primarily hunt and eat a wide variety of prey, including insects, amphibians, small mammals, birds, and other reptiles. Their method of killing is not by constriction, as their name might suggest, but rather by overpowering their prey with speed and swallowing it whole. This versatile diet is crucial for their survival across the diverse environments they inhabit, from grasslands and scrublands to the edges of forests.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Belize

2012

Canada

2012

Guatemala

2012

Mexico

2012

United States

2012