Ground Snake or Brown Snake

Haldea striatula, (Linn.)

Colouration: Uniform grayish-brown or reddish-brown above; yellowish-white beneath. There is a pale, indistinct band across the top of the head.
Dimensions: The measurements are given of an adult, female specimen, from Raleigh, North Carolina:
Distribution: This species is widely distributed and generally abundant. In the East it occurs from central Virginia to Florida; in the Central States it is found as far north as Minnesota, thence it extends southward into Texas.
Habits: During a collecting trip in South Carolina, this small reptile was found to be abundant in wooded districts where the soil was damp. It was discovered under the bark of fallen trees. During three weeks' hunting, not a specimen was seen prowling, a condition pointing to a secretive or burrowing existence; it possibly ventures from the hiding places at night. The food appears to consist of earthworms, the soft-bodied grubs of the wood-boring beetles and possibly the little ground lizard (Lygosoma).

Very small, and moderately slender. Although moderately distinct from the neck, the head is very narrow and pointed, with minute, bead-like eyes.

Total Length . . . . . 11 inches.

Length of Tail . . . . . 1 5/8 inches.

Diameter of Body . . . . . 1/4 inches.

Width of Head . . . . . 1/4 inches.

Length of Head . . . . . 7/16 inches.

In proportion to its small body, the tongue of this snake is very long and when thrown out to its greatest extent and rapidly vibrated, actually imparts a distinct, vibratory movement to the reptile's head and neck. None of the specimens showed signs of fight. One of the captives gave birth to seven young on the 20th of August.

The Genus Amphiardis: A single species is known. It has been taken in Texas only.

The scales are keeled, but shining. Body rather stout; head not distinct; tail short.