Scientific Name : Storeria dekayi wrightorum

Sex : undetermined

Length : 12 inches (Average 9 – 20 inches)

Weight : .125 Ounces (Average .1 – .3 ounces)

Longevity : Wild Caught 2004 (Lifespan unknown)

Breeding: Livebearer, 3 – 40 young, July or August

Range: Lake Michigan basin southward along the Mississippi drainage and east to the Atlantic coast and south into Florida

Habitat : Terrestrial and nocturnal resident of various habitats, from heavy forests to dry meadows, over its extremely wide range. Very tolerant of human habitation, especially in areas strewn with sheltering debris such as dumps and abandoned housing.

Food and Hunting : Primarily prey on slugs, although earthworms, snails, and pillbugs are also eaten on occasion. An adaptation of the teeth and jaws enables them to remove snails from their shells. Since they hunt primarily at night and/or underground most prey is found with their tongue and Jacobson’s organ.

Conservation : Brown Snakes are quite common throughout their range. Colonies are always at risk from development activities and toxic chemicals. They can be helpful in controlling slug damage in gardens. Typically congregate to hibernate often with red-belly, smooth green and various garter snake species.

Captive Care : Small size and relative easy of care make this a suitable species for captivity. They are very aggressive feeders if suitable prey is available. Feeding newborns can be challenging due to the extremely small prey items required. A moist (but not wet) substrate is required to prevent dehydration.