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 / northern red-bellied snake Critter Field Guide: Snakes of Michigan northern red-bellied snake Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata northern red-bellied snake Description A very small brown or gray snake with faint stripes down its back. The belly is red, pink, or orange (without the double row of dots seen in the rare Kirtland's snake). Adult Length: 8 to 16 inches. Habitat and Habits Red-bellied snakes inhabit both fields and woods, but are most often found under boards and other objects at the edges of lumber piles or trash dumps. They feed on worms, slugs, and snails. Reproduction Up to 12 tiny (3 to 4 inch-long) babies are born in summer. Range and Status Red-bellied snakes are locally common throughout Michigan. Acknowledgement James Harding MSU Museum Michigan State University East Lansing, MI 48824 (517) 353-7978 hardingj@msu.edu © Copyright 2004. All Rights Reserved.