Comments: This harmless snake is also called the Dekay snake and often mistakenly identified as a "ground rattler". The true ground rattler, the pygmy rattlesnake (Sistrurus miliarius) is very rarely found in neighborhood yards. As a defense the brown snake will flatten its head and body, coil into an "S" shape and strike when disturbed. However, the strike is usually without a bite. A foul smelling musk is often released when the brown snake is caught. This is a defense strategy and works well as most people quickly drop the brown snake which then slithers off into a safe hiding spot. Although foul smelling, they are non-venomous.
