Northern Brown Snake

Description:

This is a small snake that grows to lengths of 9-13 in. (23-33 cm). The body and tail is light brown or gray to dark brown or nearly black with a longitudinal series of small, paired, black spots. The area between the spots is lighter than the rest of the body, forming a tan stripe down the center of the back. Juveniles are uniform dark brown to black dorsally, with a narrow cream to yellow collar on the neck. This snake is viviparous (bears live young). Mating occurs from late March through May with a gestation period of 105-113 days. Virginia females bear litters of 3-26 young. This is a common snake in suburban yards and urban parks, but it is very secretive. It is non-poisonous and does not bite. This species eats earthworms, slugs, spiders, and (rarely) small amphibians. They also may consume small fish and insects. Large numbers of the Northern Brown Snake often hibernate together during the winter. During mild weather they are diurnal, while in warm weather they are nocturnal. These are secretive snakes that hide under flat rocks, logs and trash.

Habitat:

This snake lives in moist to wet areas in woodland, prairies, marshes, and in the margins of swamps, bogs and ponds. In areas of human habitation it sometimes occurs in vacant lots and gardens.