Alternate Name(s):

Earth Snake

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

A small brown to russet, sharp-nosed, burrowing and litter dwelling species. Belly white to pale yellow. This tiny burrowing snake is adult at between 8 and 12 inches in length. The head is a slightly darker brown than the body and it has a vague lighter collar. There are only 5 upper labial (lip) scales. The nose is quite sharp. Scales are keeled and are in 17 rows. The anal plate is usually divided.

Unique Features:

The sharp nose, light collar and keeled scales (you many need a magnifier to see the keels) should identify this small brown to russet snake.

Habitat and Diet:

This woodland snake is at home beneath leaf litter, in and beneath decomposing logs, under rocks and other surface debris. Earthworms; occasional arthropods.

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, SC, AL, NC, VA, AR, LA, MS, TX, KS, MO, OK