Each month, Trail Manager Emily Galka highlights flora and fauna that she observes in the Goethe State Forest that surrounds Black Prong Resort.

Goethe State Forest Species of the Month: Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus)

For most of November, we are limited to horseback riding on the property as a safety precaution during hunting season. Though we aren’t out in the forest for much of the month, there is one animal on site that I see pretty consistently—including inside the barn and sometimes even in the stalls with the horses! That would be the southern black racer.

Black racers are nonvenomous snakes known for their speed and impressive fleeing skills. They want nothing to do with people and are great at demonstrating exactly why they are called “racers.” They can grow to about four and a half feet long and typically prey on smaller animals they can overpower, such as lizards, mice, toads, and even other snakes. Adults are almost entirely black, with some white coloration on the chin and throat. When confronted by people, their first instinct is usually to escape, but if fleeing isn’t an option, they may strike or release a foul-smelling musk as a defense. Their natural predators include hawks and other birds of prey, but unfortunately, many racers are also killed by people who mistakenly assume they are dangerous.

I was recently able to remove one from a horse stall by tossing a towel over its head and gently picking it up. It never tried to bite me and, luckily, didn’t attempt to scare me away by being stinky! I was able to relocate it to the edge of the forest, where it could continue on its way.

Though Florida is home to venomous snakes, the forest is also their home, so it is our responsibility to learn how to safely live alongside them. Being able to identify harmless species like the black racer allows me to recognize when a snake poses little threat and help it out of a bad situation when necessary. Racers are especially nice to have around barns because they prey on mice and other small animals that might otherwise find their way into our grain.

So, although you’ll be riding with us on the property this month, there’s still a good chance we’ll spot a black racer stretched out in the sunshine. Even if your first instinct is to recoil, remember that these speedy snakes are not only harmless to people when left alone, but also helpful neighbors to have around for natural pest control!