Eastern Worm Snake

Carphophis amoenus amoenus

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

A persistent burrower that seldom surfaces. This 12 to 14 inch long snake may be found beneath natural surface debris or trash. Small, slender, with smooth, shiny, brown scales on the back and sides, light pink belly scales, and a sharpened tailtip scale. Anal scale divided. Eyes small, pupil round. Prefrontal and internasal scales are separated by a suture. Oviparous

 

Unique Features:

The tail is short, stout, and is tipped with a sharpened conical scale

 

Habitat and Diet:

Sandy fields, yards, sandy open woodlands. It often secretes itself beneath litter and flat rocks (flagstones, etc.) and under bark of decomposing, fallen trees. It seems to be more uncommon now than prior to the turn of the century. Primarily feeds on Worms and other invertebrates.

 

Geographic Range:

GA, SC, AL, NC, TN, KY, VA, WV, RI, NY, CT, MD, MA, NE, OH, PA