Identification
The brown snake is a small chestnut to dark brown snake averaging 10 to 12 inches in length. It has two rows of dark spots along the back that fade toward the tail. Dark bars may connect the spots, giving the impression of a ladder-like pattern. The area within this pattern is usually lighter in color than the sides. Two subspecies occur in Indiana, the Midland Brown Snake, S. d. dekayi, and the Northern Brown Snake, S. d. wrightorum. Although very similar in appearance, the Northern Brown Snake, typically has few or no dark bars across the back, while the Midland Brown Snake, has numerous bars. Similar species include: Earth Snake, Redbelly Snake
Distribution and Status
Two subspecies of the brown snake are found in Indiana. The Midland Brown Snake is found statewide, while the Northern Brown Snake is only found in the northeast corner of the state. Both species are considered abundant within their respective ranges.
Ecology
Although adaptable to a wide range of habitats, the brown snake prefers moist, open prairies and meadows. They can also sometimes be found in gardens feeding upon slugs and snails, thus benefiting a potentially frustrated gardener. They also eat earthworms.
Resources
General reference guides
and websites.
Bruce Kingsbury, Director
Center for Reptile and Amphibian Conservation and Management
Science Building
Indiana-Purdue University
2101 East Coliseum Blvd.
Fort Wayne, IN 46805-1499