IDENTIFICATION

 

Size:                  A small sized snake measuring 7.5 to 13.5 inches.              

Color:                The eastern worm snake has smooth unkeeled scales

                           with a brown dorsum and pink venter.  The transition

                           between the ventral and dorsal coloration is distinct and

                           occurs primarily along the second lateral scale row.  The

                           head is flattened to aid in burrowing through soil.  Their

                           eyes are very small.  The tail ends in a fine point.              

 

Behavior:         Fossorial. When handled they emit an unpleasant

                           smelling musk. Will attempt to burrow between fingers

                           and poke hand with pointed tail.  Very docile when

                           handled, will not attempt to bite.     

 

Habitat:            Deciduous forest and associated edge habitats, often

                           found in sandy soils.