Identification
The Northern Scarlet Snake is a medium-sized snake measuring about 15 inches in length with young approximately 7.5 inches long. The snake has red to orange saddles with black edges that are separated by yellow bands that blend with its cream belly. The young have the same pattern except that the red saddles are pink. Similar species include: Eastern Milk Snake
Distribution and Status
The Northern Scarlet Snake is only found in Floyd County, Indiana. The species is listed as state Endangered.
Ecology
This snake prefers moist soils in forested areas that are easy to burrow into. Scarlet snakes kill young mice, small lizards, and snakes by constriction. Small eggs are swallowed whole, while larger eggs are punctured and their contents squeezed out.
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