The Eastern Ratsnake (Pantherophis alleghaniensis) is Maryland’s largest snake. They are a non-venomous species with very few predators other than humans—who they will gladly avoid when possible. These snakes thrive in a variety of environments including forests, forested wetlands, and edge habitats where they can feed on small rodents, birds, frogs, and lizards. Adult Eastern Ratsnakes have shiny black scales, a black and white checkered belly, and white chins. They are common visitors to Glenstone and often reside among the stones and roofline of Andy Goldsworthy’s Clay Houses (Boulder-Room-Holes), 2007.