Midwest Worm Snake

Carphophis amoenus helenae

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

Differs from the eastern worm snake only in facial scale arrangement. The dorsum and sides are rich brown and the belly color may vary from light pink to pinkish-white. The prefrontal and internasal scales are fused (not separated by a suture). Pupil round. Anal scale divided. Best differentiated from eastern worm snakes by range.

 

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 secrets itself beneath litter and flat rocks (flagstones, etc.) Population statistics are unknown. Primarily feeds onWorms and other invertebrates.

 

Geographic Range:

AL, TN, KY, WV, AR, IL, IN, LA, MS,