When it comes to Walt Disney World and wildlife, the first Disney Park on your mind may be Animal Kingdom. And that’s totally understandable!
READ MORE: VIDEO: Are the Wild Animals of Walt Disney World Getting Too Comfortable?
After all, the Disney Park is home to the Discovery Island Trail, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, and Maharajah Jungle Trek, each of which is a self-guided outdoor trail full of live animals.
But the truth is that you don’t need to experience Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction to see some wildlife in the Most Magical Place on Earth.
READ MORE: Wild Animal Left Inside Disney Transportation
Florida may be known for its stifling sunshine, sporadic showers, and stunning beaches. But the Sunshine State is also known for its incredibly diverse wildlife, many of which have persisted despite the deforestation and habitat loss human activity has contributed to.
While visiting Walt Disney World, you’re likely to see birds and squirrels, which are sometimes a little too friendly. On extremely rare occasions, you may even see an alligator! More often, however, you’ll likely see a snake or two.
One Guest recently caught a picture of a little snake while visiting EPCOT and posted it on social media:
Met this guy in Epcot yesterday 🐍
byu/Abigail-mary inWaltDisneyWorld
READ MORE: Move Over Disney Cats! A New Type of Park Wildlife Takes Center Stage]
However, this particular Floridian has something to say about these black snakes specifically: leave them alone!
These little guys are called black racers. While black racers may look frightening, especially when they zip past you, the truth is that they’re harmless.
READ MORE: Have You Ever Played Duck Duck Goose With a Bear? These Kids at Wilderness Lodge Have!
Just like sharks, these little snakes are more afraid of you than you are of them. They’re non-venomous and aren’t prone to attacking people or pets. In short, they’re not aggressive and don’t deserve to be attacked simply for occupying the same space as Guests visiting Disney.
If you spot one of these snakes while visiting Walt Disney World, just turn around and leave them be!