Range
Extreme coastal southwestern Oregon and northwestern California.
Habitats
Primarily found in grasslands that contain forests or scattered trees. Can also inhabit urban yards and marshes. Prefer to stay in moist areas on the ground under rocks, logs, and other natural debris. During dry weather will stay underground in burrows including those of rodents.
Identification
Noticeably thin with a slender head, small limbs, and a long tail; exhibits both coastal and caudal grooves. Appearance can be compared to that of a worm. Dorsum color is usually black with a stripe along back that is either yellow, brown, red, or tan. Black venter with white flecks. In late fall or winter, females lay clutches containing 4 to 21 eggs. In winter or spring, the eggs hatch.
Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians