Eastern racer
A species of Eastern racers, Also known as Southern black racer, North American Racer Scientific name : Coluber constrictor Genus : Eastern racers
Eastern racer, A species of Eastern racers
Also known as:
Southern black racer, North American Racer
Scientific name: Coluber constrictor
Genus: Eastern racers
Content
Description General Info
Photo By connorkuppe , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
Coluber constrictor is a species of nonvenomous, colubrid snake, endemic to North America and Central America. Eleven subspecies, including the nominotypical subspecies, are recognized, which as a group are commonly referred to as the eastern racers.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Eastern racer primarily feeds on small mammals like rodents, birds, and reptiles. This opportunistic predator occasionally extends its diet to insects, amphibians, and eggs, demonstrating broad flexibility in its feeding habits.
Appearance
Eastern racer is a slender, elongated reptile with smooth, glossy scales. Primarily black or dark gray in color, adults can have a cream or yellow-colored underbelly. Its distinguishing features include long, thin bodies and a pointed head. Males and females are similar in appearance, with minor variations in size. Juveniles often sport a patterned skin, which gradually fades into solid color as they mature.
Behavior
Eastern racer is a nonvenomous, solitary species primarily active during the daytime (diurnal). It is an efficient hunter, exercising a constricting technique to subdue its prey, which largely consists of small mammals. Exhibiting oviparous reproduction, females lay clutches of eggs during summer. This species, while non-territorial, may exhibit aggressive behavior when threatened.
Population
Stable
Photo By connorkuppe , used under CC-BY-NC-4.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Eastern racers Species
Eastern racer