The black rat snake is the largest snake in Ohio, reaching lengths up to eight feet. It is an excellent climber and often takes shelter in a cavity high up in the trees. It often enters abandoned or little used buildings such as barns or attics in search of rodents to eat.
Black Rat Snake
Elaphe obsoleta
Fact File
Where to see them: Reptile House
Length: Up to 8 ft
Habitat: Varied habitats from rocky hillsides to farmlands
Diet: Rodents
Helpful Hunter: The black rat snake plays an important role as a predator in controlling the rodent population.
90-Second Naturalist 
