Florida Red-bellied Snake

Storeria occipitomaculata obscura

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

An adult length of 10 to 15 inches is attained. This secretive snake has a dorsal color of tan to russet. The venter is red orange to yellow belly. There may be 3 light spots on the nape but these are normally fused into a collar. This snake may flatten the body and head, form an S or a loose coil, and roll its upper labial (lip) scales upwards when frightened. Use range when attempting subspecies differentiation. Broad areas of intergradation occur where subspecies about. Scales keeled. Ovoviviparous. Juveniles similar to but darker than adults. The diet of this species consists primarily of slugs and snails but earthworms are also eaten.

 

Unique Features:

Three light spots or a light collar on the back of the head and a (usually) red belly will identify this little snake.

 

Habitat and Diet:

A secretive woodland, edge, and sometimes yard snake. The diet of this species consists primarily of slugs and snails but earthworms are also eaten.

 

Geographic Range:

FL, GA, SC, AL, AR, LA, MS, TX,