Alternate Name(s):

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

Characteristics:

This 7 to 12 inch long snake has no distinctive markings. A small gray to russet snake that may be unpatterned or that might have 4 broken rows of tiny black dots on the dorsum. Belly white to yellowish. Snout is more rounded than that of the rough earth snake. This snake has 17 rows of scales and a divided anal plate. Despite the reference to smooth scales posterior dorsal scales may be weakly keeled. Ovoviviparous. Neonates similar to adults. Use range to differentiate subspecies.

Unique Features:

None. It is often easier to identify this snake by ruling out similar species that it couldn’t be. Use range maps.

Habitat and Diet:

Seeks safety beneath leaf litter and other surface debris. Also search beneath fallen trees and beneath bark. Moist woodland, farms, vacant lots, even suburban yards.

Geographic Range:

AL, TN, KY, AR, IL, IN, LA, MS, TX, ID, KS, MO, IA, OK