Black racers are active hunters

Sharon Thompson, of Wesley Chapel, caught this black racer peering out of a bush, while she was taking a walk. These snakes are common in grasslands, open woodlands and suburban areas. The racer often is found near water where prey is plentiful. A lively daytime predator with excellent vision, it is plain to see how this speedy, agile snake got its name as it quickly hunts down frogs, rodents, lizards, fish, insects and other snakes.