Dekay's Brownsnake
Storeria dekayi
A tiny, secretive brown snake commonly found in gardens and vacant lots across much of eastern North America.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 23-33 cm (9-13 in)
- Range
- Eastern and central United States, southeastern Canada, and parts of Mexico and Central America
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
Dekay's Brownsnake is a small, harmless colubrid that is one of the most commonly encountered snakes in urban and suburban areas across its wide range. It is often found under debris in gardens, parks, and empty lots.
Despite its unassuming appearance, it plays an important ecological role as a predator of slugs, snails, and earthworms in both natural and human-altered habitats.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body in shades of brown, gray, or tan
- A pale stripe often runs down the back, bordered by rows of small dark spots
- Keeled scales give a slightly rough texture
- Round pupils; small head barely wider than the neck
- Distinguished from young gartersnakes by lack of bold longitudinal stripes and much smaller size
Habitat & range
Highly adaptable, found in woodlands, wetland edges, and especially disturbed urban and suburban habitats such as gardens, vacant lots, and under sidewalk debris.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and mostly nocturnal or crepuscular, spending the day hidden under logs, rocks, or trash. Feeds primarily on slugs and earthworms. Gives birth to live young in late summer, often in fairly large litters for its size.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dekay's Brownsnake dangerous?
No, it is completely harmless and too small to pose any threat to people.
Where might I find one in a city?
Look under boards, rocks, mulch, or debris in gardens and vacant lots, where it hides during the day.
What does it eat?
It feeds mainly on slugs, snails, and earthworms, making it beneficial in gardens.
Does it lay eggs?
No, it gives birth to live young rather than laying eggs.
Dekay's Brownsnake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dekay's Brownsnake.
Dekay's Brownsnake identified by the community
Real snakes identified with Snake Identifier.
