snake in the neighborhood - run!

We found this guy crossing our street yesterday. We watched in astonishment as he proceeded to climb our neighbors tree. I, of course, ran and got the camera. From now on, no more bare feet around the yard! Later a friend informed us that this specimen is called a "rat snake". He gets his name from the food he eats. I guess he is actually an asset to the area. Gonna have to think on that one. -brian