I've had red rat snakes and black snakes (both supposedly very timid) respond in the same manner when cornered. I guess I'd do the same if some giant was trying to catch me in a net!

It was purely a defensive move. It felt threatened and probably had no idea where to try to hide, not being used to rugs and furniture and the like. BTW, neither red rat snakes nor black snakes (presuming we're talking black racers) are "timid" at all. They are harmless, but both will defend themselves if necessary, and in fact, black racers will bite like fury. They do not tame down very well, remaining quite wild and very willing to bite. Red rats DO tame down easily, but will certainly defend themselves when they feel threatened.

Any description of the snake, Nancy? It would be interesting to know what it is. And do you have an indoor/outdoor cat or dog, by any chance? They will often catch snakes and bring them inside, especially cats, who can play with them for hours without hurting them, if they choose.

Marcia

I'm pretty sure it was a black racer. Dark charcoal color, a lighter stripe under the mouth where I wouldn't ordinarily see it, but when it reared up I did. It definitely wanted to bite. The tongue was rapidly going in and out, the head kept striking out and the tail was rattling to beat the band. I think the poor thing was just scared. Smart though, he hid among the black wires under the computer. I wouldn't have even seen it if it hadn't moved. No pets, I think it just came in to check things out when a door was left a bit open. my Mother in law is elderly and has trouble with the weight of the sliding doors. Thanks for the info.
Nancy

not trying to one-up you but I found a snake in my refrigerator one day. I'd poured myself a glass of tea and when I put the pitcher back in the 'fridge, my eye caught something "not right" as I shut the door. I opened the door again and it took me a second to recognize the grey stuff on the ledge (that accomodates the thickness of the door)as a snake. I got a jar and managed to coax him into it, but to this day, I don't know how he got inside the 'fridge and into such a tight space!

I heard a joke about forgetting why you walked into a room, so you go the fridge, there must be a clue in the fridge. Maybe your snake was looking for a clue. That definetly beats one under the desk. How weird.
Nancy

Years ago friends had moved into a newly build home in Whiskey Creek. While having her Master Bath Painted and tiled she went in to use the spare bathroom. She flipped up the seat and just as she was set to sit, movement caught her eye. She had a copperhead looking at her butt!! As long as they lived in that home, she never again used the spare bathroom, she kept to door closed and wouldn't even let her visitors go in. When they sold the home it was the only room in the house that was never painted!! Poor gal!

Creepy story about the snake in the toilet. I'd sure want to be sure the light was on if I used that bathroom.
Nancy