Western Wormsnake
Family:
Colubridae (nonvenomous snakes) in the order Squamata (lizards and snakes)
Description:
This species is usually purplish-brown above and salmon pink on the belly and lower sides. The tail has an interesting (and harmless) spike which also helps it maneuver through soil.
Size:
Length ranges from 7 to 11 inches (18-28 cm).
Habitat and conservation:
This species is never seen in the open; it either hides under rocks, logs or boards, or burrows into damp soil or leaf litter. Worm snakes mainly live on wooded hillsides.
Foods:
They eat earthworms and insect larvae and eggs.
Distribution in Missouri:
Statewide, except for extreme southeastern corner and a few counties in the north-central part of the state.