98 THE AMERICAN MUSEUM JOURNAL 
species having keeled scales. The Worm Snake frequents damp 
localities and soft, loose ground, where it burrows with the aid 
of its sharp snout. Specimens are sometimes found in decaying 
logs. It is seldom found wandering about above the surface, 
except among damp leaves or after showers. The food consists 
largely of earthworms and soft grubs. This snake is oviparous. 
Range: Central and eastern United States. 
Local distribution: Long Island; Palisades of the Hudson. 
FIG. 4. MILK SNAKE 
The Milk Snake, Lampropeltis doliatus triangulus (Figs. 4 
and 5), is one of the most brightly colored of the local snakes. 
Milk The body above is yellowish brown or gray, with a 
Snake. series of irregular chestnut-brown or reddish spots 
edged with black, about fifty in number; on the sides are smaller 
spots in alternation with those of the back. Beneath, the 
reptile is white, with numerous, small oblong spots of black. 
The length, when mature, is from three to four feet. The scales 
are smooth and polished. 
