There is a large grey snake species that frequents the area I live in. It appears to be nonvenomous. I was wondering if you could help identify it? The snakes are full bodied and though they are not extremely common. They don't seem to be extremely aggresive but will strike if accidently cornered. They have no diamond pattern or stripes with an underbelly that can be white to yellow. These snakes are usually large for our area and I have rarely seen one under 4 ft in length with most appearing to be over 6 ft. Maybe the large ones just stand out more. This is not a blue racer, bull, or black snake as they are more common where I live and these snakes are larger. One other note, they seem to like to climb and sun themselves on top of briars or into the trees. Can you help identify this species for me as I have always been curious as to what it actually is?

Good morning, I am not a snake expert, but the description you give sounds similar to a Gray Ratsnake (Elaphe obsoleta). These snakes are found in your area and are arboreal. You can find a photo and description at: http://www.inhs.illinois.edu/animals_plants/herps/species/el_obsolet.html

The Illinois Natural History Survey has put together a great website that provides information on snakes and other reptiles and amphibians. The website is: http://www.inhs.illinois.edu/animals_plants/herps/ilspecies.html

Hope this helps you identify the species you are seeing. If you have more questions please feel free to e-mail me.