212 
NATURAL HISTORY. 
THE BLACK SNAKE. 
22. This is one of our most common snakes in 
this country, and is distinguished by its being per- 
fectly black. Its usual length is five or six feet. It 
is perfectly harmless, always fleeing at the approach 
of any person, and being destitute of venom. 
23. It is very active, and will at times climb trees 
after its prey ; and at other times it may be seen 
gliding at full length along the ground. On some 
occasions it presents itself half erect, and in this 
posture its eyes are seen to great advantage. 
24. Its eyes appear like fire for brightness, by 
means of which it is said to be capable of fascinating 
birds, who tremble on the wing, and are at length 
so completely frightened as to fall into the serpent’s 
mouth. 
25. The following instance of this power of fas- 
cination was stated, by Professor Silliman, in the 
American Journal of Science, vol. xii., as having 
been seen by himself. 
26. “ In the month of June, 1823, in company 
with a friend, I had just crossed the Hudson river, 
from the town of Catskill, and was proceeding in a 
How is the Black Snake distinguished 1 Is the Black Snake 
dangerous ? What is said of its fascinating powers ? What is re- 
lated by Professor Silliman '? 
