The Flat-headed Snake is found in Harris County, but is not commonly seen. This is primarily due to its very small size - no more than 8 or so inches - and its fossorial (living underground) habit. The background color varies tremendously, and can be shades of tan, brown, or even red. However, the lighter colored belly is usually more reddish-pink than any other local snake. One unique identifying characteristic for this harmless snake is the darker smudge of color on top of the head. This dark smudge is much less distinct than that of the Texas Brown Snake.

As with most snakes, Flat-headed Snakes are completely harmless if encountered, and will readily disappear underground or slither off in the opposite direction if given the opportunity. In fact, these small snakes are often mistaken for earthworms because of their small size and the way in which they wriggle their bodies when they feel threatened!

Flat-headed Snakes can be found just about anywhere there is a cool dark moist bit of any type of soil. This habitat is ideal for them to find a variety of suitably sized invertebrates - including venomous centipedes, caterpillars, grubs, and probably ant larvae. In the author's opinion, that makes it a pretty valuable snake to have around!