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Zoology/Need to identify a snake

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Expert: Meryl Green - 10/21/2009


Question

Snake found in Office
Hi!  We just found a baby snake in our office and need to identify it.  We are in Central Florida.  Looking on-line we can't determine if this is a baby Diamondback Rattlesnake or a baby Black Racer.  It was no bigger around than your little finger and about 10-12 inches long. Could you help us identify it please?  Also if it is a baby snake, are there likely to be more in the office?  Thanks!

Answer
I'm pretty sure this one is a racer.  Here's a picture that looks remarkably like yours:
http://rlv.zcache.com/young_black_racer_print-p228618357588161785vsu7_500.jpg

A young rattlesnake already has rougher scaling, the beginning of a heavy body and a stronger head-neck difference when relaxed:
http://sdsnake.com/Snake/Baby19.jpg

Meryl Green

Expertise

I can answer questions regarding the ecology, behavior and basic biology of various animal species, particularly cats and Florida native animals. I generally cannot answer questions regarding the physiology of animals. I -do not- know about duck husbandry.

Experience

Eight years as a Docent in the Central Florida Zoo, Education Animal Keeper internship at the Central Florida Zoo, research assistant with the University of Central Florida Beach Mouse Project.

Education/Credentials
B.S. Biology

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