Kirtland's Snake

Clonophis kirtlandii

This species is related to the garter and water snakes, and like them it often flattens its body when disturbed. Kirtland's Snake takes this behavior to the extreme; it can make itself completely flat and stiff, appearing as if it has been run over by a car! Young specimens are uniformly dark on the top and have a red belly.

Look For : A snake with 2 rows of large dark spots on sides. Brick red belly scales edged with row of black spots.

Length : 14-24".

Habitat : Wet meadows, swamps.

Range : Great Lakes and midwestern U.S.