The Texas Blind Snake – A Misunderstood Reptile

The Texas blind snake is a worm like serpent that is very slender and tiny. The adult Texas blind snake is generally around 5-8 inches in length, and has the same size scales underneath as above.

One way to determine the Texas blind snake from other similar species is to look at the head. There are three small scales that run across the top of the head stretching from eye to eye. This difference becomes important when dealing with other blind snakes such as the Trans-Pecos blind snake. It sports only one scale in the same place.

The Texas blind snake is usually a pale, shiny brown color, though it has appeared a rust like color as well. The bottom of the Texas blind snake tends to be white or pink with no marks. The Texas blind snake can also appear silvery in color in some situations as well.

When the Texas blind snake is threatened or handled, it imparts a clear, viscous liquid from its anus that it will coat its entire body with. Thus, the silvery appearance. This liquid is in fact, the snakes own feces, and it provides the snake with a protective “shell” so that it might enter an ant hill or repel other troublesome threats. The Texas blind snake loves ants, and the entry into the ant hill is very convenient in its search for ant pupae. Snake poo is also very effective in gaining release from a curious human being!

The Texas blind snake is largely underground and can be found beneath stones and rocks after rainfalls. They will commonly search for food in the evening. The Texas blind snake also likes to eat earthworms, insects, ants, and termites as well.

Many people are afraid that the Texas blind snake is in fact a baby snake of other species and fear that it will bite. This is a silly concern as the snake does not bite humans, and has very tiny bottom teeth only. These snakes are often killed without cause, and to the detriment of humans. This snake helps to control the ant and insect population by being present, and keeping it around is a good idea.

The Texas blind snake should never be killed, as it is completely harmless, and serves a purpose like all of nature. If you are uncertain if the snake is a dangerous one, then remove the habitat instead of killing the snake. The Texas blind snake will invariably be found underneath a structure, and removing a rock or log from your property is much easier and nature friendly. The snake will not stay without cover.