A snake that is black with yellow bands could be a few different species, but one of the most common is the eastern kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula). This non-venomous snake often has a pattern of black with yellow or white bands. Another possibility is the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis), which can also exhibit a similar coloration, though its bands are typically lighter in color and sometimes appear more greenish.
It’s important to note that there are other species with similar coloration, so it’s always best to observe other characteristics like size, shape, and behavior to identify the snake more accurately.
Here are more detailed descriptions of two common snake species that can have black and yellow banding:
1. Eastern Kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula)
- Appearance: Eastern kingsnakes typically have a pattern of black or dark brown with alternating light-colored (usually yellow or white) bands or stripes that wrap around the body. The bands are usually narrow and can sometimes appear as a series of blotches along the snake’s length.
- Size: Eastern kingsnakes can grow to be around 3 to 4 feet long, although some individuals may reach up to 5 feet.
- Habitat: They are commonly found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and wetlands, across the southeastern United States.
- Behavior: Non-venomous, eastern kingsnakes are known for their calm demeanor and ability to constrict their prey, which often includes other snakes (even venomous ones like rattlesnakes).
- Diet: They primarily feed on small mammals, birds, lizards, and other snakes, including venomous species.
2. Common Garter Snake (Thamnophis sirtalis)
- Appearance: Garter snakes have a more varied coloration, but some subspecies exhibit black or dark brown bodies with lighter yellow or white stripes running lengthwise down their backs. The stripes are not typically banded in a circular pattern but run along the spine.
- Size: Garter snakes are generally smaller than kingsnakes, with adult sizes typically ranging from 18 to 26 inches, though they can sometimes grow up to 3 feet long.
- Habitat: Found throughout North America, garter snakes prefer areas near water, such as ponds, streams, and wetlands, but can also be seen in grasslands, woodlands, and urban areas.
- Behavior: Garter snakes are non-venomous and are often docile, though they can release a musky scent as a defense mechanism when threatened.
- Diet: They feed on a variety of prey, including amphibians (like frogs), small fish, invertebrates, and sometimes small mammals.
Differences to Consider:
- Kingsnakes typically have a more defined banded pattern around their entire bodies, whereas garter snakes usually have longitudinal stripes along their backs.
- Kingsnakes are often larger and more robust compared to the thinner, smaller garter snakes.
- Kingsnakes are more likely to be found in a variety of habitats and are famous for eating other snakes, including venomous ones.
If the snake you saw has clear, distinct bands around its body, it is likely to be a kingsnake. If the pattern is more of a longitudinal stripe down the back, it’s probably a garter snake.