Kirtlands Snake Clonophis kirtlandii

Identification
This small species has a brown back with dark blotches and a bright red belly. It is secretive and rarely seen.

Location
State endangered

Size
14 to 18 inches

Diet
It feeds mainly on worms and slugs.

Habitat
It occurs in wet meadows and grassy wetlands in limited regions.

Activity Period
April to October

Behavior
It is fossorial and spends much time underground or under debris. It is highly sensitive to habitat disturbance. It is most active in warm months after rainfall.

Lifecycle
Breeding occurs in spring and females give birth to live young in late summer.

Population
The population is small and highly vulnerable.

History
It has declined significantly due to habitat loss.

Human Interactions
It avoids humans and is rarely encountered.

Facts
It is one of Ohios most elusive snakes.

Sources
ODNR USFWS

Earthworms slugs small invertebrates | Wet meadows marsh edges grassy wetlands | Southwest and central Ohio