Grey Rat Snake

This guy was found curled up inside of a shoe bin in a garage! Meet the Grey Rat Snake! The guys are very common here in south Georgia. They are active during the day in Spring and Fall, but in the Summer they come out during day and night. These snakes can be found almost anywhere, from trees to old houses, ponds to grassy areas, or even garages! Anywhere rodents can be found, these guys love to set up shop.


The primary diet of the Grey Rat Snake is (SURPRISE!) rats and mice. They can also feed on birds and bird eggs, and when young will even dine on small amphibians and lizards. So, having a Rat Snake around isn't the worst thing in the world if you have a rodent problem (if you dislike mice more than snakes, that is.) They are great climbers, so don't be surprised to see them in high places (i.e. rafters, trees, or even attics). They range in length from 3'-6', with the largest recorded at 84.5 inches (almost 7.5'!). This one that I captured was about 3.5-4ft.



This snake is non-poisonous. Typically a Grey Rat Snake will sit still if it feels threatened, and may bluff a strike. It will bite if handled, and wounds normally require a simple bandage. Even though it is non-venomous, it is advised that you call a professional (Animal Control or wildlife removal) to remove any snake. After this one was captured it was transported to a wooded area, where it will be able to live a happy life with all sorts of prey!