NON-VENOMOUS, NON-NATIVE

Other common names

Brahminy Blind Snake, Flowerpot Snake

Basic description

Most adult Brahminy Blindsnakes are about 4.4–6.5 inches (11.2–16.5 cm) in total length. These snakes are small, thin, and shiny silver gray, charcoal gray, or purple. The head and tail both appear blunt and can be difficult to distinguish from each other. Juvenile coloration is similar to that of adults.

Range in Florida

Brahminy Blindsnakes are a non-native species from southern Asia that was first reported in Miami, Florida in the 1970s. They have now been found from Key West north throughout much of the peninsula, and there are isolated records from the Panhandle.

Assessment of risk to people and pets

Non-venomous. Brahminy Blindsnakes are not dangerous to people or pets.

Comparison with other species

None, but Brahminy Blindsnakes are frequently mistaken for earthworms. Although both are shiny, if you look carefully you will see that earthworms are segmented (i.e., they have rings around the body) and Brahminy Blindsnakes are not segmented. Also, if you look closely at the head, you can see these snakes stick out their tiny tongues while being held.

Share your observations

You can help scientists better understand the biology and distribution of this species by sharing your observations. Send photos or videos of interesting observations, along with associated information, by emailing the herpetology staff at the Florida Museum for documentation in the Museum’s Herpetology Master Database. You can also post your observations on iNaturalist.

Additional helpful information

Do you have snakes around your house? Learn how to safely co-exist with snakes.

Still have questions about snakes or identifications? Feel free to email the herpetology staff at the Florida Museum with your questions or feedback on this profile.

Banner photo courtesy of Noah Mueller. Please credit any photographers on the page and see our copyright policy.