Can you identify this snake?
Posted by Lynn Oliver on October 23, 2005
Q: It's late October and cold and windy, so we are surprised to see this little fellow out and about. Can you help identify it?
State: Virginia
Habitat: forest/open woods
A: Your photos were extremely helpful - thank you so much! Your snake is a Northern Redbelly Snake (Storeia occipitomaculata). This species grows to about 8-10" and varies a bit in its colors. This is a secretive snake that is often found in open woods, especially in mountainous areas and is completely harmless. It's a bit late for this snake to be out and about but it's probably trying to find that "just right place" for the long winter. Be sure to release your snake soon so it can continue what it started before it gets too cold. Thanks for sharing.
John Wiessinger ( October 23, 2005)