My heart skipped a beat as I scanned the rat snake's habitat. My eyes darted between all of her favorite hiding spots. But Emory was no where to be seen.
Panic rising, I unlocked the door and heard a rustle. I breathed a sigh of relief as I looked up to see Emory climbing along the top edge of the habitat. She hadn't escaped like I feared!
Rat snakes are actually quite good climbers. They are known to climb into shrubs and trees to find their next snack, perhaps a baby bird or egg, or even a sleeping bat!