This picture features Echo, a 20+ year old Gray Ratsnake that’s been seen in the park frequently over the last 17 years. The Gray Ratsnake is this week’s species of the week. An average full-grown length of 6ft makes this species Canada’s longest snake! They are docile constrictors, feeding on mostly small rodents and bird eggs. Young Gray Ratsnakes have a dark grey and black pattern that darkens as they get older to become mostly black. Not to be confused with the Northern Watersnake, Gray Ratsnakes have a bright white chin and a flat underbelly which makes them excellent climbers. Unfortunately, Gray Ratsnakes are a threatened species due to habitat loss, road mortality, and persecution. If you’ve seen a Gray Ratsnake in the park or elsewhere, share a picture with us using the hashtag #friendsofmurphyspoint on Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. Check back next week to learn about another species that can be found at Murphys Point!