The Rough Earth Snake is a somewhat common snake found throughout Harris County, and is highly variable in color, ranging from browns to tans and even brick reds. The color of Rough Earth Snakes is consistent on individual snakes, though, meaning that there is no real pattern; just a solid color on top. Hatchlings are the size of an earthworm, and even adults are 7 to 10 inches long.

Rough Earth Snakes are completely harmless if encountered, but will readily defecate (poop) on you to defend themselves. This is just a way to get larger animals to leave them alone, however, and it is hoped that you too will learn to leave them alone when they do this! Although they do not strike, they do have teeth, but their mouths aren't large enough to grab human skin even if they tried!

Rough Earth Snakes can be found just about anywhere there is a cool dark moist bit of soil - like nicely mulched landscaping - which is why they are so commonly seen. This snake is easily differentiated from babies of the venomous Southern Copperhead by the lack of any pattern.

Rough Earth Snakes eat a wide variety of suitably sized insects and other invertebrates, including snails and slugs, making them a gardener's friend. After all, you decide what's better - slugs or Rough Earth snakes!