Reptile and Amphibian Abundance and Distribution Survey - Oak ...

A.2.2SnakesEastern Worm Snake—Carphophis amoenus amoenusEastern worm snakes occur through most of the southeast.Their habitat includes hardwood forests in high elevations,where they can be found under rocks, logs, and debris. Whilethey have been found in forested wetlands, they are mostprominent in dry uplands.Eastern worm snakes spend most of their timeunderground or in burrows. They remain inactive on hot days,and their activity peaks during the fall. The snakes can remaindormant for up to 2 weeks at a time. Males travel from theirStudy photohome ranges much more than females. Their diet containsearthworms, invertebrates, and some insect larvae. The snakes are very secretive, and their habits are notwell documented.Breeding takes place in spring and fall, and females lay up to a dozen eggs in June and July. Theyoung reach sexual maturity after 3 years.Because of their secretive nature, little is known about their lifespan and status. The populations arebelieved to be dense where their habitats are favorable.Northern Ringneck Snake—Diadophis punctatus edwardsiiThe northern ringneck snake occurs in most of the centraland eastern parts of the United States, and its range continuesalong the western coast. Populations are missing in thenorthwestern United States but are found almost everywhereelse.Northern ringneck snakes rely on a huge variety of habitats,evident by their large range. They shelter under rocks, logs, andleaf cover. The snakes prefer moist conditions but are known tosurvive without permanent water sources.Ringneck snakes are primarily nocturnal; however,Photo by Scott Dykes ©individuals can be spotted at all times of day. The species rarelybites in defense against predators, and instead plays dead or flips over to reveal its brightly coloredstomach and distract its predators. When attacked, the species gives off a strong-smelling musk. Thespecies does not harm humans.The ringneck snake breeds during spring and fall, and eggs are laid in June and July. Eggs can be laidin communal nests but only where colonies of the snakes are present. The females lay 3 to 10 eggs, andthe eggs hatch in 7 to 8 weeks.Ringneck snakes are common in their range. The species is believed to live up to 10 years in the wild.A-14