11 Subspecies of Racer Snakes That Are Completely Harmless

Known for their slender, agile frames, racer snakes are generally non-threatening to humans. Their coloration might cause confusion with other species, but their distinct behaviors and traits make them easily identifiable.

Belonging to the Coluber constrictor family, these snakes are misnamed as they don’t constrict prey. Instead, they rely on rapid strikes to secure their meals. Their coloration varies by region, ranging from blue and black to greenish hues, but all share a streamlined, swift physique.

The term 'North American racer' encompasses various racer snake species found across the U.S. and parts of Canada. These adaptable reptiles thrive in diverse environments, from woodlands to open plains, and are known for their energetic hunting techniques.

1. Black-masked Racer (Coluber constrictor latrunculus)

Primarily inhabiting the southeastern U.S., including areas like Arkansas and Missouri, the black-masked racer is a swift and nimble snake. Its name derives from the striking dark "mask" over its eyes, which adds to its elusive look. Juvenile black-masked racers, like many young North American racers, often display brighter and more vivid scales compared to adults.

This snake, with its slim, olive-to-grayish body, thrives in forests and open fields, preying on small mammals, birds, and insects. Its appearance can easily lead to confusion with adult black rat snakes or similar species, especially when moving through dimly lit environments.

2. Blue Racer (Coluber constrictor foxii)

True to its name, the blue racer boasts a stunning blue or bluish-gray hue. Native to the Great Lakes region, it favors open spaces such as grasslands and fields, where its speed aids in hunting and evading threats. Known for its defensive behavior, this snake often shakes its tail in dry leaves to imitate the sound of a rattlesnake.

3. Brown-chinned Racer (Coluber constrictor helvigularis)

Native to Central America, the brown-chinned racer is easily identified by its glossy, dark body and a unique brown or tan marking on its chin.

Adaptable to various environments, from tropical forests to open savannas, this snake actively hunts small prey in dense underbrush. As a nonvenomous, daytime hunter, the brown-chinned racer is alert and inquisitive, swiftly escaping danger while maneuvering through its lush, vegetated habitat.

4. Buttermilk Racer (Coluber constrictor anthicus)

Found predominantly in the southern U.S., including Texas and Louisiana, the buttermilk racer is among the most visually striking racer species. Its name reflects its unique marbled pattern of white, cream, and black speckles, which makes it stand out in the grasslands and savannas it inhabits.

The buttermilk racer relies on its speed and agility to evade predators and hunt rodents, lizards, and amphibians. Although it boasts a striking appearance, this nonvenomous snake tends to steer clear of conflicts whenever possible.

5. Eastern Yellow-bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor flaviventris)

The eastern yellow-bellied racer, found in the central and eastern U.S., features a bright yellow underside and a darker dorsal hue that can vary from gray to green.

Thriving in open environments such as meadows and fields, eastern racers are adept hunters, using their speed and camouflage to catch a wide range of small prey.

6. Everglades Racer (Coluber constrictor paludicola)

Inhabiting Florida's wetlands and marshes, these snakes are dark gray or black with underbellies that are less pronounced than those of other racers. Their remarkable agility allows them to navigate the dense vegetation and tall grasses of the Everglades while hunting small mammals and amphibians.

7. Mexican Racer (Coluber constrictor oaxaca)

Primarily found in southern Mexico, the Mexican racer is a slender, quick-moving snake. Its olive green to brownish-gray coloration allows it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings.

This snake's rapid movements enable it to traverse forests and open fields in pursuit of small mammals, birds, and insects. Though nonvenomous, the Mexican racer is known to flee swiftly when threatened, displaying the typical evasive behavior of racer snakes.

8. Northern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor constrictor)

The northern black racer is predominantly found in the northeastern and central regions of the U.S. Although similar to its southern counterpart, the adult northern black racer tends to have a darker, less vibrant gray or black coloration.

Known for their climbing abilities, these snakes are often seen sunbathing on rocks or logs. Younger northern black racers display more vivid patterns, featuring brown or gray blotches, which fade as they age, eventually turning into their signature black shade.

9. Southern Black Racer (Coluber constrictor priapus)

Inhabiting the southeastern U.S., the southern black racer is a swift and agile snake. Its glossy, jet-black body makes it stand out as it moves rapidly through forests and open grasslands.

While adult southern black racers are uniformly black, juveniles often exhibit patterned or mottled markings. These nonvenomous snakes are known for their speed and tendency to flee rather than confront threats.

10. Tan Racer (Coluber constrictor etheridgei)

Native to the southwestern U.S., the tan racer features a sleek, sandy brown hue that blends seamlessly into its dry, desert-like habitats, including scrublands and arid regions.

This snake’s slender, aerodynamic body is designed for rapid movement, allowing it to hunt small prey efficiently while staying hidden in its sandy surroundings. Nonvenomous and quick, the tan racer excels at evading predators, showcasing its remarkable survival skills.

11. Western Yellow-bellied Racer (Coluber constrictor mormon)

Inhabiting the western United States, the western yellow-bellied racer is a visually striking snake. Its olive-green dorsal side and vibrant yellow underside make it easily recognizable in its natural environment.

Western yellow-bellied racers are renowned for their remarkable speed, often darting away swiftly when threatened. They thrive in open environments like prairies and deserts, where they can efficiently hunt lizards, small birds, and rodents.