a cat would never catch a black racer. they are amazingly fast. the snake was probably totally amused by Tavi's antics at the end of the leash.

That was my impression too! Although I did have a cat years ago that was quite skilled at catching black racers although she never hurt them. She'd always bring them home alive and uninjured to present to my mom who really doesn't like snakes! She also brought home ring necks, garters, and on one memerorable, thankfully cold, december day she showed up with a live coral snake.

Tavi sounds adorable.

I had a black racer nose to nose with ME last week. It wouldn't leave, and I needed to be where it was.

Unlike Tavi I was not amused. I shrieked so loud when he rared up and shot like a bullet straight towards me, then made a fast 90 degree turn under my fence.

Now I know what kind of sound I would make when absolutely terrified. I've often wondered how actresses decide on their "scream" for movies. Now I've got mine.

Thank goodness he turned ! Not sure what he would have done with me what with that teensy tiny little mouth, don't want to know either.

I doubt that the toy had much to do with it. Cats are programmed to go after such things. I have had a cat for most of my life and they all have enjoyed snakes. Our current feline is confined to the house and screened pool area, but the dogs have filled in on the vermin removal task. I'm sure the snake could out run the cat/dog in a straight line race, but they tend to do stupid things, like stop and play dead... not much brain matter in those little heads.

Here's 3 of the exterminators watching the geckos on the porch

I'm having a great laugh from this post. Actually more than one. I don't mind black racers. They might bite you, but I doubt it. They usually want to race the other way fast. I don't know why that one didn't do that too. I had cats growing up that would bring us live garter snakes and deposit them at the front steps. No harm done. My cat now is an indoor cat. He goes crazy sometimes at night running from one window to another to follow whatever is outside.

Inulover, that is a cute picture of you three hunters! My parents australian terrier is also a big hunter who will go after any squirells, rats, moles, and snakes that get into their fenced in back yard. They are happy she goes after the rodents but would prefer she left the snakes alone.

Zack, My cats stay indoors unless I'm out in the garden with them. My older cat, Koneko, is allowed to roam around the yard one her own but Tavi stays on her lead in whatever area of the garden I'm in. That doesn't stop the two of them from going hunting out in the garage which is where thei litter box is located. It's not that unusual for me to come home to find a dead lizard lying on the living room rug that Koneko has brought in from the garage.

It all depends on the cat's personality whether or not they become hunters. I've had cats that were terrific hunters and then others who haven't had any interest at all in chasing a critter even when in passes right in front of them!