I found a snake in my front yard.. What kind of snake is it?

Since you didn't say where you are located at, I would suggest you google snakes for whatever state you live in. There are websites that identify the most common snakes for most any state there is. Then learn about the individual types, so you can make a determination whether it is venomous or harmless. If you live in an area where snakes are common, you should do that, simply to keep your children and pets safe. If your kids are old enough, teach them as well. Don't kill any snakes unless you know they are a danger to your family. Many are beneficial in keeping venomous snakes under control [they eat them], as well as rodents and other small insects including roaches, crickets, earthworms, etc.

There are many species which look roughly similar to the snake in the photo. Without a photo of the actual snake, and without knowing where you found it, nobody is going to be able to give you a positive ID.

The fact that it adopted a "striking stance" is very typical of many non-venomous species, including rat snakes. Don't kill it; in all likelihood, it does not pose any threat to your animals or children.

My advice is that you look in a field guide for your area and try to identify it that way, unless you can get a good photo and post it here.

Rat snakes and corn snakes are common. You should never handle any snake that you are not sure of.

DOnt try to catch it yourself, as thats how most people are bitten. You can call your wildlife department ()or equivellent) and see iof there is a qualified snake catcher in your area, but the chances are it will move on soon enough

You live in the southeast? That's just a rat snake. They call them corn snakes in the pet store. It won't hurt your puppy or baby but if you are still worried just pick it up and throw it in a pillow case and dump it in a field at least half a mile from your place. or a barn. There's rats in barns.

California king snake they aren't venomous so you should be fine if bitten