Snake ID
Posted by Michael Holbrook on June 17, 2006
Q: We just moved to Nevada and don't know any of the wildlife. I have come across the same type of snake twice, it is small maybe 8" in length and looks like a baby. It's a greenish brown color, almost tan with a red stripe straight down the back. The first one was on the road in our complex and the other was at the bottom of our stairs leaving the condo. Just curious what kind it is and if it may be harmful.
State: Nevada
A: Thanks for your description and exact geographic location - very important. Sounds like you have seen a couple of Ground Snakes (Sonora semiannulata). The red stripe down the back is pretty obvious although their general coloration can vary somewhat. These snakes are harmless and feed on a varity of scorpions, spiders, centipeds and insects so are really an ally in your area. Check this species out on the web to see if my ID looks correct. Thanks for asking.
John Wiessinger ( June 19, 2006)