Rough Earthsnake

Range

Wide-ranging throughout the southeastern United States, from the eastern half of Texas, north to central Missouri, and east through the Gulf and Atlantic coastal states to southeastern Virginia. It is absent in the Florida peninsula.

Habitats

This snake spends most of its time underground or hidden beneath rocks, logs, or leaf litter. It is commonly found in compost piles or garden soil. It will inhabit forested areas or urban environments, as long as there is plenty of ground cover.

Identification

A small, slender snake with an undefined neck and a head that tapers to a pointed snout. It averages 7-10 inches in body length and has mildly keeled dorsal scales. It is solid tan, brown, or dark olive in dorsal coloration. This color fades subtly to an unmarked whitish ventrum. It has round pupils.

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