I photographed this Western Ratsnake in June 2017 as it crossed the asphalt section of the tour road at Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. The snake seemed almost to be smiling for the camera, making for a unique and engaging shot. I came across it while driving and quickly stopped to capture the moment. I was able to get down prone on the asphalt, positioning my camera at the snake’s eye level, which provided a more intimate perspective.
About the Western Ratsnake
The Western Ratsnake, also known as the Black Ratsnake, is a non-venomous species found throughout much of the central and eastern United States, including Oklahoma. It is an excellent climber and can often be found in trees as well as on the ground. These snakes primarily feed on small mammals, birds, and bird eggs, playing an essential role in controlling rodent populations.
Despite their large size—often reaching 4 to 6 feet in length—Western Ratsnakes are generally shy and non-aggressive. When threatened, they may freeze or flee rather than attack. If cornered, they might vibrate their tails to mimic a rattlesnake, a behavior known as “tail rattling.” However, this snake seemed quite calm, allowing me to approach closely for the photograph.
Camera Settings and Technique
For this shot, I used a Canon EOS 7D Mark II with a Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II lens. I opted for aperture priority mode to control the depth of field and ensure the snake’s head was sharp against the blurred background. Here were the settings:
- Shooting Mode: Aperture Priority (AV)
- Shutter Speed: 1/320 sec
- Aperture: f/6.3
- ISO: 800
- Exposure Compensation: -0.3 EV
The aperture of f/6.3 provided a shallow depth of field, making the snake’s head the focal point while gradually blurring the road surface. Shooting at a shutter speed of 1/320 sec was sufficient to capture the snake’s slow movements without motion blur. I used a -0.3 exposure compensation to avoid overexposing the image, given the bright conditions on the asphalt.
Importance of Snakes in Ecosystems
Snakes like the Western Ratsnake play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. By controlling rodent populations, they help reduce crop damage and prevent the spread of diseases associated with rodents. They are also prey for larger animals, such as birds of prey and mammals, making them an integral part of the food web.
Though many people fear snakes, it’s important to recognize their value in nature. Non-venomous species like the Western Ratsnake are harmless to humans and should be appreciated for their role in the environment.
Tips for Photographing Snakes
- Get Low: Shooting from the snake’s eye level provides a more engaging perspective.
- Use a Telephoto Lens: A telephoto lens allows you to maintain a safe distance while capturing detailed images.
- Monitor the Shutter Speed: Use a fast enough shutter speed to prevent motion blur if the snake is moving.
- Be Aware of Lighting: Asphalt can reflect sunlight, so adjusting the exposure compensation can help prevent overexposure.
Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge: A Diverse Habitat
The Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge is known for its diverse wildlife, from birds and mammals to reptiles like the Western Ratsnake. The mix of wetlands, forests, and open areas creates a habitat that supports a wide range of species. This encounter with the ratsnake is just one example of the many wildlife experiences possible at the refuge.
Capturing this Western Ratsnake crossing the road was a reminder of the rich biodiversity present at Sequoyah. It also provided an opportunity to show these often-misunderstood creatures in a positive light, emphasizing their peaceful nature and ecological importance.