Kirtland's Snake

Kirtland's Snake is a small, secretive colubrid restricted to wetland and prairie habitats of the midwestern United States. Once more widespread, its populations have declined significantly due to wetland drainage and urban development, making it a species of conservation concern in several states.

This harmless species is rarely seen due to its fossorial habits, often sheltering in crayfish burrows and moist ground rather than in open water.

• Small, slender body with keeled scales
• Grayish-brown to reddish-brown dorsal coloration with two rows of small dark blotches
• Bright reddish or pinkish belly marked with a bold row of black spots on each side
• Small head, not strongly distinct from the neck; round pupils
• Distinguished from other small brown snakes by its vividly colored, black-spotted red belly

Inhabits wet prairies, marsh edges, and moist meadows, often in association with crayfish burrows which provide shelter and moisture. Found in the Midwest from Ohio and Indiana through Illinois and neighboring states, typically in low-lying, poorly drained areas.

Secretive and largely fossorial, spending much of its time underground in crayfish burrows or under surface debris. Most active during warm, humid weather and often seen crossing roads at night after rain. Feeds primarily on earthworms and slugs. Gives birth to live young in late summer.