frequently asked q u e s t i o n s critter f i e l d   g u i d e what is it? g u e s s   g a m e ask jim y o u r   q u e s t i o n s critter care i n s t r u c t i o n s links f o r   m o r e   i n f o Critterguy / Critter Field Guide / Snakes / Kirtland's snake Critter Field Guide: Snakes of Michigan endangered Kirtland's snake Clonophis kirtlandii Kirtland's snake Description A small reddish-brown snake with four rows of black (often indistinct) blotches down its back, and a black head. The belly is pink or red with a row of black dots along each side. Adult Length: 12 to 18 inches. Habitat and Habits Found in damp meadows, vacant lots, and swampy woodlands. These worm-eating snakes stay underground much of the time. Reproduction Females give birth to 5 to 8 young in late summer. Range and Status Kirtland's snake can be found in the southeastern most parts of Michigan, most of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and north central Kentucky. The species is considered rare throughout its range. In Michigan it is considered "endangered" and in Indiana it is considered "threatened." Acknowledgement James Harding MSU Museum Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824 (517) 353-7978 hardingj@msu.edu © Copyright 2004. All Rights Reserved.