IDENTIFICATION

 

Size:                  A small sized snake measuring 9.5 to 15 inches in

                           length.

 

Color:                Dark brown to tan dorsum with a lighter line down the

                           center etched by darker scales. The venter is cream to

                           light gray in color.  Keeled scales.            

 

Behavior:         When handled they emit an unpleasant smelling musk,

                           very docile, does not bite.   Occasionally they will flatten

                           out their bodies to appear larger to predators.     

 

Habitat:            Occur in a variety of habitats, commonly encountered in

                           urban and suburban areas.