This is a snake that was in my yard in Southern Pines just a little while ago. I usually find snakes in my pool a few times a year, but I’ve never seen one in the grass. I’d say it’s close to 2 feet long. It’s black with a white underside. Creepy!
Beth Morgan Multiple Myeloma Treatment Blog
My life as a myeloma patient for almost two decades
Could be a king snake. They are good to have around. They eat other snakes.
Beth – I’m not a snake expert, but this could be a black rat snake. It’s apparently common in your area. Here is some info about the species: http://www.herpsofnc.org/herps_of_NC/snakes/Elaobs/Ela_obs.html . You can also use this tool ( http://www.bio.davidson.edu/projects/herpcons/herps_of_NC/snakes/SnakeID/search.asp ) to try and identify what kind of snake it is that you saw.
I hope you don’t find more of them in your yard and around the house!
I’m pretty sure you’re right.