Fig. 8. Blacksnake (Black Racer), Coluber constrictor constrictor. This and the pilot 

 blacksnake are the largest of the broadly distributed local serpents. The scales are 

 smooth and satiny, distinguishing the species from the other blacksnake. with which it 



is often confused. The racer is a useful reptile as it feeds largely upon rodents. 



Fig. 9. (Lower) Young of the common Blacksnake. The egg are laid early in 



July and may take nearly two months to develop. The young are spotted until 



late the following year. 



