Identification
The redbelly snake has two color phases – brown and gray. This snake has two black lines along the length of its back that look similar to the dark spots along the back of the brown snake. However, Northern Redbelly Snakes lack the cross bars and their underside is a distinctive bright pink. Often, there are three light spots located behind the head and one below and behind each eye. Redbelly snakes range 7 to 10 inches in length. Similar species include: Brown Snake, Earth Snake
Distrbution and Status
The Northern Redbelly Snake is found in the southern quarter of the state and along the Saint Joseph River basin. The species is considered uncommon within Indiana.
Ecology
Redbelly snakes are most often found on dry wooded slopes and ridges. They spend much of their time under bark, logs, and leaf litter. The species is also reported to have climbing skills sufficient to perch itself on tree limbs out of harm’s way. The diet of the redbelly consists of slugs, earthworms and other invertebrates.
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