T. s. sirtalis Melanistic

[sschind]

Especially when all the other jet black snakes have a bad temper.

Ever try to keep a black racer?

Melanistics have the same look, with the smooth temperaments of a garter.

Wayne

Smooth temperament??? My easterns are all over the place. Now my Eastern Blacknecks are great. About as mellow as you can get. As far as other all black snakes go Melanistic variable kings are about as mellow as you can get. Black milks are great but it takes a few years for the babies to become all black. Mexican Black kings are great but if they don't have good genetics the adults can turn out more of a dark chocolate brown. I'd give all three of those the nod over an eastern garter when it comes to temperament.