Lined Snake

The lined snake is a small, secretive species of the central United States, often mistaken for a garter snake due to its similar striped pattern.

It is most reliably identified by a distinctive double row of dark, crescent-shaped markings running down its pale belly, a feature not seen in true garter snakes.

• Brown, gray, or olive background with a pale yellowish middorsal stripe
• Faint lateral stripes may also be present
• Distinctive double row of dark half-moon or crescent markings along the belly
• Keeled scales
• Small head barely distinct from neck
• Distinguished from garter snakes chiefly by the paired dark belly crescents

Found in prairies, vacant lots, rocky hillsides, and urban gardens across the central United States from the Great Plains through the Midwest, often under rocks, logs, and debris.

Secretive and often found under surface cover during the day, becoming active at dusk and at night. Feeds primarily on earthworms. Bears live young in late summer, with small litters typical of its small body size.