Black-Striped Snake

Range

Range stretches along the Gulf Coast from the southern tip of Texas through coastal Mexico into Central America.

Habitats

This nocturnal snake burrows underground or hides under logs or vegetation during the day. It prefers habitats with loose, sandy substrate, and particularly likes piles of decomposing cacti. It will sometimes wedge itself into the cracks of dry soil, and has been found around construction sites.

Identification

This small, slender snake grows to 12-18 inches in length. It has smooth scales and a narrow head. Its dorsum is patterned with sharply defined dark brown longitudinal stripes separated by light brown; a thin central stripe down the back that begins at the neck, and thick lateral stripes down its sides that begin at the tip of the snout and pass through the eyes. Its ventrum is typically solid pinkish orange in color.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians