Jordan Lake. I watched for over two hours as the northern mockingbird did its best to say no to the black racer snake. Neither animal was hurt but both were very frustrated. Yes black racers will get into birds’ nests. Yes black racers sometimes become a meal for hawks, bald eagles and other snakes. I always try to remember that nature is never cruel but she is harsh.
snake
Tagdoc ellen and the queen snake
While out at the lake yesterday, a friend spotted a snake.
We soon had T. J. Hilliard there to identify the long thin snake that I am holding.
It is a queen snake Regina septemvittata.
It is nonvenomous, is a water snake, and a native species.
The queen snake has very specific living requirements.
It is only found where there are clean running streams and water sheds.
The presence of the queen snake can help us know that the condition of Jordan lake is great!
the photo is curtesy of T. J. Hilliard
doc ellen's journey 