Western Worm Snake

WormSnake

Western Worm Snake NON-VENOMOUS

Scientific Name: Carphophis vermis
(Formerly: Carphophis amoenus)
Family: Dipsadidae
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Description & Size

  • Legless
  • No eyelids
  • Lacks external ears
  • Scales on the back are smooth and glossy
  • Small head
  • Small eyes
  • Sharply pointed tail
  • Total length: 17.8-39.1 cm (7.0-15.4 in)
  • Purple coloration on top
  • Pink to orange coloration on bottom
  • Dividing point in the color is on or around the 3rd scale rows above the belly scales (ventral scales)

Habitat

  • Moist woodlands
  • Wooded hillsides
  • Under rocks, bark, logs, and leaf litter

Diet

  • Earthworms
  • Insect larvae and pupae
  • Very small snakes

Life History

  • Fossorial
  • Active season: spring – mid-fall
  • Breeding season: March – June
  • Lays eggs
  • 1-6 eggs per female
WormSnake range