Western Worm Snake
Carphophis vermis
The western worm snake has a total length of 7.5-11 inches at adult stage with the maximum length recorded as 14.8 inches. The Carphophis vermis has a dark purplish or b…
How to identify
The western worm snake has a total length of 7.5-11 inches at adult stage with the maximum length recorded as 14.8 inches. The Carphophis vermis has a dark purplish or brown dorsal coloration. The underside of the snake is usually lighter, pink or reddish in color. The foul-smelling musk from its cloaca is used a s a defense mechanism.
Range
This species is endemic to the United States in Eastern Kansas, Western Illinois, Missouri, Louisiana, southeastern Nebraska and Northeastern Texas excluding Southwestern Wisconsin, southeastern Arkansas and middle Tennessee.
Habitat
western worm snake or Carphophis vermis live primarily underground and spend majority of its time buried in loose soil or under damp leaf litter. This species feeds on almost entirely earthworms but it can also consume soft-bodied insects. Eggs are known to be laid early in the summer in a clutch size consisting of one to eight eggs. Hatching takes place around August or September. The size of the hatchling ranges from 3-4 inches.
Similar species
The worm snake or Carphophis amoenus has a brown dorsum, a bright pink venter. The belly is of the same color with one or two dorsal scale rows. The coloration of the worm snake has no pattern and distinguishing feature of 13 rows of body scales that are smooth, without pit. The anal plate is also split. The midwestern worm snake or Carphophis amoenus helenae has each of its internasal fused with the corresponding prefrontal. As a result, this species has two large head shields. The anterior surface of its head a distinctive scalation. The eastern worm snake or Carphophis amoenus amoenus has a less vibrant dorsal and ventral coloration. This species is known to lack pigmentation of the third row ventrally.
Name and etymology
Vermis: Latin for worm.
At a glance
Range
This species is endemic to the United States in Eastern Kansas, Western Illinois, Missouri, Louisiana, southeastern Nebraska…
Habitat
western worm snake or Carphophis vermis live primarily underground and spend majority of its time buried in loose soil or un…
Guide
Reptiles and Amphibians of North America
Range map
Approximate range. © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap