Coluber constrictor priapus

Also known as Southern Racer, Black Racer

Southern black racers actively hunt during daylight, relying on keen vision and exceptional speed to overpower small prey. Adults display glossy black upper bodies paired with contrasting white chins and grey bellies, blending effortlessly into pine flatwoods and brushy suburban edges. When threatened, they vibrate their tails in dry leaves to imitate rattlesnakes before making a rapid retreat.