Florida Brown Snake
Storeria victa
A small, secretive brown snake common in Florida gardens and leaf litter, harmless to people and a frequent resident of suburban yards.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 20-30 cm (8-12 in)
- Range
- Florida and coastal southeastern United States
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Overview
The Florida brown snake is a diminutive colubrid closely related to the widespread Dekay's brown snake, occupying much of peninsular Florida and adjacent coastal areas. It is one of the most commonly encountered small snakes in Florida neighborhoods, though its secretive habits mean most people never notice it.
Its small size, docile nature, and preference for hiding under debris make it inconspicuous despite being abundant in many urban and suburban habitats.
How to identify it
- Light brown to grayish-brown body with a faint pale stripe bordered by small dark spots down the back
- Small head barely wider than the neck, with a short snout
- Round pupils
- Keeled dorsal scales giving a slightly rough texture
- Pale collar behind the head, though less distinct than in some relatives
- Distinguished from earth snakes by the paired dark spots along the back and keeled scales
Habitat & range
Found throughout much of Florida in gardens, vacant lots, woodland edges, and under logs, leaf litter, and debris. Common in urban and suburban settings as well as natural pine flatwoods and hammocks.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal and secretive, spending most of its time hidden under cover objects. Feeds mainly on earthworms and slugs. Extremely docile, rarely attempting to bite even when handled, and often simply releases a mild musk when disturbed. Gives birth to live young in small litters.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Florida brown snake dangerous?
No, it is completely harmless and non-venomous, posing no threat to people.
What does it eat?
It feeds mostly on earthworms and slugs found in moist soil and leaf litter.
Where is it commonly found?
It is common throughout Florida, often turning up in gardens and under yard debris.
How can I tell it apart from other small brown snakes?
Look for the faint pale back stripe bordered by small dark spots and its distinctly keeled scales.
Florida Brown Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Florida Brown Snake.
