About Storeria dekayi (Holbrook, 1839)
This species, Storeria dekayi, displays distinct dorsal and ventral coloration. Dorsally, it ranges from brown to gray, with a lighter central stripe that is bordered by small black spots. Ventrally, it is lighter brown or pink, with small black dots at the ends of the ventral scales. Adults usually reach a total length including tail of less than 12 inches (30 cm), and the maximum recorded total length is 19 3/8 inches (49 cm). On average, newborn juveniles measure 3 inches (7.68 cm) long. Its dorsal scales are keeled, and the species lacks a loreal scale. Females are larger than males in snout–vent length and have a greater number of ventral scales, while males have longer tails, larger head dimensions, and a greater number of subcaudal scales than females.
Storeria dekayi is native to Southern Ontario and Quebec, most of the eastern half of the United States, and extends through Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, with a possible presence in El Salvador. This common species occurs in most wetland and terrestrial habitats east of the Great Plains, at elevations ranging from sea level to 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) above sea level.
Storeria dekayi is commonly associated with urban areas, and is encountered more often in cities than in open countryside. It can also be found in wetlands, grasslands, and forests, but is most commonly encountered in areas with human presence. It prefers moist habitats. While the species is generally solitary, groups of aggregated individuals have been observed.
Like other natricine snakes including water snakes of the genus Nerodia and garter snakes of the genus Thamnophis, Storeria dekayi is viviparous, meaning it gives birth to live young. Individuals reach sexual maturity at two to three years of age. Mating occurs in the spring, after snakes emerge from brumation. Between 3 and 41 young are born in late summer.
Storeria dekayi is preyed on by larger snakes, large frogs and toads, birds, and many mammals including weasels and invasive housecats; the milksnake (Lampropeltis triangulum) has specifically been recorded preying on this species. To avoid predators, S. dekayi coils the anterior portion of its body and sways it from side to side while attempting to flee. When threatened, it also releases a foul-smelling musk from its cloaca. This shy species is rarely found in open areas, and typically hides under rocks or logs for safety and shelter. It will also occasionally burrow. It is most active from March to October each year.
