In many parts of the country, the black snake, on account of its rapid
movements, is called the "racer." Though fangless, it often, in
consequence of the way in which it rustles its tail among the dry
herbage, making a sound similar to that of the rattlesnake, gives no
small alarm to the wanderer among the brushwood near the edges of
streams or ponds. It is also frequently encountered in the fields or on
the roads.
It is generally from five to six feet in length; of a blue-black above,
and an ashy grey below. It climbs trees in search of birds or their
eggs; and if interrupted in its employment, will turn its rage against
the intruder. Sometimes, it is asserted, it will, to his horror, leap
down and give him a bite; though the only injury likely to arise is that
to his nervous system from fright. Its bite is, indeed, perfectly
harmless; and it does good service in hunting rats which live in the
outbuildings, being able to climb walls and insinuate itself into the
most intricate passages when chasing them.