The DeKay’s Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi) is a small, non-venomous reptile frequently encountered across much of North America. It is one of the smallest snakes in its range, thriving in diverse environments from woodlands to suburban and urban areas. Due to its diminutive size and secretive nature, it often goes unnoticed, but plays a beneficial role in the local ecosystem, especially in gardens and parks.
Maximum and Average Length
Adult DeKay’s Brown Snakes typically reach a total length of 9 to 13 inches, including the tail. These small dimensions often lead to the snake being mistaken for an earthworm or a juvenile of a larger species. Despite its length, the body is considered stout relative to its size, giving it a slightly heavy-bodied appearance.
The absolute maximum length recorded for this species is 19 to 20 inches, but individuals reaching this size are exceptionally rare. Most adults rarely exceed 15 inches. The snake is also extremely light, with average weights falling in the range of 0.02 to 0.04 pounds.
Distinct Physical Characteristics
The coloration ranges from light brown and tan to grayish or reddish-brown, allowing for effective camouflage within leaf litter and soil. A defining feature for identification is a faint, lighter stripe that runs down the center of the back. This central stripe is bordered on either side by two parallel rows of small, dark spots, which can sometimes appear connected.
The scales covering the snake’s body are distinctly keeled, which gives the snake a rough or textured feel. Its head is small and dark, often appearing slightly distinct from the neck, and typically features dark markings, including a small dark spot beneath each eye. The belly is generally a uniform pale color, usually a pinkish-white or cream.
Diet and Non-Aggressive Nature
The DeKay’s Brown Snake is a specialized predator whose diet consists almost entirely of soft-bodied invertebrates like slugs, snails, and earthworms. This makes the snake beneficial for gardeners, as it helps regulate populations of common garden pests. It possesses specialized teeth and jaw mechanics that allow it to effectively extract snails from their shells for consumption.
As a non-venomous species, the DeKay’s Brown Snake is harmless to humans and exhibits a docile temperament. When threatened, its primary defensive strategy is to flatten its body against the ground to appear larger. If handled, it may release a foul-smelling musk from its cloacal glands as a deterrent to predators. It is frequently encountered in residential yards and urban green spaces due to its preference for moist environments with ample cover, such as under rocks, logs, and decaying leaves.