Identify snake
Posted by nimmy ajay on July 29, 2007
Q: We had a second encounter with a black snake in our backyard. We have 2 pets and our 2 year old playing in the yard..so we would like to know if they are poisonous. We called the Animal Control guys the first time and they took the snake away. Tonight, we saw a similar one again in our backyard. We are worried why they were visitng our backyard..for water (the ground is wet with water leaking from the pipe). We have a drainage about 5 houses down..is it coming from there? Should we be worried. The snake is about 3 feet long,black with yellow rings around it. On its underside, it is more patterend.I have the picture attached.
Habitat: suburban/yard
State: Georgia
Habitat: suburban/yard
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A: I can't really see any detail with your photo but from your description and what I can make out with the photo it seems to me to be an Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). Try googling this animal and see if it looks right recognizing that it does vary in pattern somewhat.
This is a safe snake to have around and one that won't bother your child nor the pets. Kingsnakes feed on other snakes so quite frankly, they'll reduce the snake population in your area. I realize that snakes can be scary at times but if left alone, this animal won't bother anyone. You're really lucky to have it around. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( July 30, 2007)