Florida's Snakes
Smooth Earthsnake
(Virginia valeriae)NON-VENOMOUS
Solid-colored
Smooth Earthsnake
Photo by John Jensen. This photo may not be used without the express written permission of the photographer.
Size:
Usually 7 – 13 in. (max. 15 in.)
Identification:
Body is reddish brown, brown, or gray and may be marked with speckles. Head is small and pointed. Back of head may be marked with a faint pale collar. Belly is usually pale but may be gray, tan, or brown. Scales are smooth. This snake gives birth to live young (does not lay eggs).
Habitats:
Found in northwestern peninsular Florida and in the panhandle in moist hardwood forests, pinewoods, and suburban yards with leaf litter. Also found in an isolated population in central Florida (see map) in similar habitats and also in scrubs. It spends most of its time burrowed under rocks, logs, and other debris.
Diet:
Earthworms, snails, insects
Map by Monica E. McGarrity - may be used freely for education.