When my city Hubby and I first bought our farm...35 years ago..there was an old chicken house he wanted to tear down.. When he was on the tin roof, tearing it down..He came upon a huge Black snake..Almost fell off the roof... but learned he/she was there for the mice... He was told by the country folk..they were harmless. Thank goodness..when the chicken house was down..we never saw another one...in 25 years..so, I guess. they do love old barns, ect... Now, I have NEVER seen a snake in the 7 years we have lived on top of a Mountain...Only..Black bears ect.. Bonnie