DeKay's Brownsnake
Storeria dekayi • Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Storeria, Species: Storeria dekayi
North America including much of the eastern half of the United States, southern Canada (Ontario, Quebec), and south through Mexico to Honduras.
Look up DeKay's Brownsnake in the Snake Encyclopedia →Family
Order: Squamata, Suborder: Serpentes, Family: Colubridae, Subfamily: Natricinae, Genus: Storeria, Species: Storeria dekayi
Conservation
Least Concern (IUCN). Population is stable, though they are frequently killed by humans who mistake them for other species.
Physical Description
Small, slender snake typically brown to grayish-brown. Features two rows of dark spots bordering a lighter central dorsal stripe. The head is relatively small with large eyes and round pupils. Scales are heavily keeled.
Size & Dimensions
The specimen in the image is a juvenile, likely 3–5 inches. Adults typically range from 9 to 13 inches (23–33 cm); maximum recorded is approximately 19 inches.
Habitat
Generalist species found in forests, swamps, and grasslands, but highly adapted to urban and suburban areas. Frequently found under debris, leaf litter, and in gardens.
Diet & Feeding
Specialized feeder focusing on soft-bodied invertebrates, primarily earthworms, slugs, and snails. They use sharp teeth to pull snails out of their shells; they do not constrict.
Reproduction
Viviparous (gives birth to live young). Litters typically range from 3 to 40 young, born late summer; juveniles are born with a distinct whitish ring around the neck.
Conservation Status
Least Concern (IUCN). Population is stable, though they are frequently killed by humans who mistake them for other species.
Cultural Significance
Highly beneficial in gardens as they act as natural pest control for slugs and snails that damage ornamental plants and vegetables.
Notable Features
Among the most successful urban-dwelling snakes in North America. They thrive in vacant lots and backyard gardens where larger predators are absent.