Did you know that eastern rat snakes can provide natural pest control? These snakes will eat rodents, including mice and rats. They are also the largest species of snake in New England, and this size means that they can eat more pests than other, smaller species. However, they are currently endangered in Massachusetts due to habitat loss and other human activities. Eastern rat snakes are also a vital part of local ecosystems, as in addition to acting as a predator, they also serve as prey for hawks and eagles!