This Ratsnake with tongue out was photographed at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.

To sample the chemical environment, the tongue is flicked out of the mouth on a regular basis.

This method of chemical sampling enables these animals to detect non-volatile compounds that are not detectable by the olfactory system alone. This improved ability to detect chemicals has resulted in improved capacities to identify prey, recognize kin, choose mates, find shelters, among other things.

How I Got The Photo: Ratsnake With Tongue Out

This snake was on the road between Reeve’s Boat Ramp and the Sandtown turnoff.

I exited my pickup to photograph this Ratsnake while hand-holding my camera and lens.

Gear Used:

• Camera: Fujifilm X-T3
• Lens: Canon EF 100-400 mm f/4.5-5.6 L IS II USM (attached with a Fringer EF-FX Pro)

Technical:

• Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
• Date and Time Taken: July 22, 2021 (8:43 A.M.)
• Exposure Mode: Aperture Priority
• Aperture: f5.6
• Shutter speed: 1/2400 (as determined by the camera)
• ISO: 800
• White Balance: Auto
• Metering Mode: Multi
• Exposure Compensation: 0
• Back-button Focus
• Single Point Focus
• Focal [Read More…]

This Ratsnake was crawling over rocks on the auto tour road at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.

The Black Ratsnake (Elaphe obsoleta obsoleta) is a common species of non-venomous snake found in Oklahoma and other parts of the United States. They can grow up to 6 feet in length and are known for their glossy black color and distinctive white chin. Black Ratsnakes are known to be excellent climbers and are often found in trees, barns, and other structures. They feed primarily on rodents and birds, and their presence can be beneficial in controlling populations of these pests.

The Texas Ratsnake (Elaphe obsoleta lindheimeri), is another species of Ratsnake found in Oklahoma. They are similar in appearance to the Black Ratsnake, but have a more yellowish coloration and a lighter chin. Texas Ratsnakes are also non-venomous and feed primarily on rodents and birds.

They have strong, muscular bodies that give them the power to slither over rough terrain, making it easy for them to traverse even the most challenging of gravel environments.

Their small, pointy scales help to provide traction, allowing them to slither over loose rocks without slipping. Their scales also protect them from injury as they move over sharp rocks and other obstacles.

Ratsnakes are also known for their agility and speed, which helps [Read More…]