How to Identify DeKay's Brown Snake (Identification Guide)

Key identifying features

DeKay's Brown Snake (Storeria dekayi) is a small, non-venomous, highly adaptable species common across much of the eastern and central United States. It is identified by its plain grayish-brown coloration marked with two parallel rows of small dark spots down the back, connected occasionally by faint crossbars, along with keeled scales and a small head.

Coloration & pattern

The back is typically light brown, tan, or grayish-brown, with a pair of rows of small dark brown or black spots running the length of the body, sometimes joined by thin dark crossbars to form a subtle ladder-like pattern. A pale, poorly defined stripe often runs down the center of the back between the spot rows. The belly is plain pale pink, cream, or light tan, usually without bold markings, distinguishing it from the vivid red belly of the related Red-Bellied Snake.

Head, eyes & scales

The head is small, only slightly distinct from the neck, with a somewhat pointed snout. Eyes are small with round pupils. Scales are keeled (ridged), giving the body a slightly rough, matte texture rather than a glossy shine.

Size & body shape

Adults are small, typically 25–35 cm (10–14 inches) in length, with a slender, cylindrical body and a short, tapering tail. It is one of the more commonly encountered small snakes due to its tolerance of disturbed and urban habitats.

Range & habitat where you'll see it

This species is widespread across the eastern and central United States, thriving in a wide variety of habitats including woodlands, urban gardens, vacant lots, and even city parks, wherever moist cover such as leaf litter, boards, or trash is available. It is highly secretive and most often found by turning over surface debris.

How to tell it apart from look-alikes

The two rows of small dark spots down a plain brown back, combined with a pale, unmarked or lightly pink belly, distinguish it from the Red-Bellied Snake, which has a strikingly bright red or orange underside. Its small size, keeled scales, and subdued coloration also separate it from young rat snakes or garter snakes, which usually display bolder stripes or blotches and grow much larger. It is frequently found in urban and suburban settings, making it one of the most commonly encountered small snakes in yards and gardens.