Northern Redbelly Snake
Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata
Conservation Status:
State Status: Apparently Secure
Global Assessment: Least Concern
Description
Redbelly snakes are small, growing around eight to twelve inches long. They are reddish-brown or gray with a red stomach. Two dark stripes are sometimes seen in this species. Three lighter spots can be seen at the base of the head, sometimes bleeding into each other to create a ring around the neck. Newborns are darker in color with a distinct ring around the neck.
Habitat
This species is common in a variety of habitats, such as woodlands, fields, and bogs. They like high elevations and can also be found in gardens.
Behavior
Redbelly snakes spend a lot of time hiding under debris on forest floors. They eat invertebrates, primarily worms and slugs. When handled, they release an unpleasant smell. They are very docile and will not bite. In the summer, they give birth to one to twenty live young.
Range
Present
Northern Redbelly Snake
Photo needed! Email ajones7428@gmail.com
Often Confused with
Dekay's Brownsnake
Photographed by bradyseven
Dekay's brownsnakes and redbelly snakes are commonly confused. Brownsnakes are larger and a lighter brown compared to the reddish-brown or gray coloration of redbelly snakes. Redbelly snakes have three light spots behind the head that sometimes blend into a ring, orange or red stomachs, and a light stripe sometimes bordered by darker stripes. Dekay's brownsnakes have cream bellies, and a light stripe down the back bordered by dark spots.