I went for a walk this afternoon and saw this on one of our neighbors fences. It is a Eastern Rat Snake, about 3.5 to 4 foot long. I did not get close enough to measure. But apparently, if you are going to have a snake this would be the one you would want. They do a lot of good just keep them away from your feathered friends.
Facts About Black Snakes
Diet: Mostly eat rodents, lizards, birds and bird eggs. The Eastern rat snake, like the Eastern racer, is a constrictor. They can climb trees and, if you don’t protect your birdhouses with baffles, they will invade nests.
Smell: Rat snakes emit a musky smell when threatened.
Habitat: Live in grasses, forests, marshes and buildings. Wherever there are food and dark shelter, you may find them.
Benefits: Eat large quantities of rodents. If you can get over your fears, they’re good to have around your garage or barn to keep mice away.