This Red-bellied Snake was crossing an Arkansas country road I like to walk that is near my place in the Ouachita Mountains. I also photographed a Ring-necked Snake on this same day.

Arkansas is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including many species of snakes. One species that is not well-known but deserves attention is the Red-bellied Snake (Storeria occipitomaculata). This small and slender snake is native to the state and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and wetlands.

Appearance

The Red-bellied Snake is named for the red or orange coloration on its belly, which is often visible when the snake is frightened and coiling up. However, the rest of its body is usually brown, gray, or black with a distinctive pattern of light and dark stripes or spots. It grows to a maximum length of about 15-18 inches.

Habitat and Diet

Red-bellied Snakes can be found throughout Arkansas, but they are most commonly encountered in the eastern part of the state. They prefer moist environments and are often found near water sources, such as streams, ponds, and swamps. They are also known to hide under rocks, logs, and leaf litter, as well as in crevices in tree bark.

These snakes feed primarily on small invertebrates, such as earthworms, slugs, and snails. They use their keen sense of smell to locate their prey and [Read More…]