Nine species of brown snakes may be hidden within the leaf piles near you, each with distinct characteristics that make them unique. Keep an eye out for these fascinating reptiles.

Brown snakes are among the most prevalent and diverse reptiles worldwide. With their varying sizes and venomous abilities, they present a group of wild snakes that are both captivating and significant for scientific exploration.

Although the name "brown snake" may seem straightforward, these creatures can be anything but ordinary. From Australia’s dangerously venomous species to the more gentle varieties in North America, brown snakes serve essential, intricate functions in their ecosystems.

Despite their often understated appearance, brown snakes are remarkably versatile and inhabit a wide range of environments, from dense forests and open grasslands to bustling cities. Let’s delve into the characteristics of nine unique species of brown snakes and what sets them apart.

1. Eastern Brown Snake

The eastern brown snake (Pseudonaja textilis), commonly referred to as the common brown snake, is one of the deadliest snakes not only in Australia but across the globe. This swift and defensive snake is found throughout eastern Australia and parts of Papua New Guinea.

Eastern brown snakes can range in color from a pale brown to a deep, dark brown. Their venom is extremely potent, impacting the nervous system and causing issues with blood clotting. Despite their dangerous reputation, they play an important role in controlling rodent populations.

The name "common brown snake" can refer to different species in Australia, depending on the region, but it’s most often associated with the eastern brown snake because of its widespread presence. As one of the most common and widely found venomous snakes in the country, it is responsible for the majority of snakebite fatalities in Australia.

2. Western Brown Snake (Australia)

The western brown snake (Pseudonaja nuchalis), also known as the gwardar, is another highly venomous snake species native to Australia. It inhabits much of Australia’s dry and semi-dry regions. In contrast to the eastern brown snake, the western brown snake displays more varied coloration, ranging from light to dark brown, and even exhibiting orange or reddish shades.

These snakes are known for their quick strikes followed by a swift retreat. While they may not be as aggressive as eastern brown snakes, western brown snakes still possess a venomous bite that can be fatal, making them one of the most difficult Australian snakes to encounter in the wild.

3. Northern Brown Snake

The northern brown snake (Storeria dekayi), also known as Dekay’s brown snake, is a small, nonvenomous species found in North and Central America. It is commonly encountered in gardens, forests, and urban environments, making it one of the most plentiful snakes in its range.

Northern brown snakes are usually light to dark brown with small dark spots and a pale underside. Their diet mainly consists of earthworms, slugs, and other small invertebrates, playing a vital role in preserving the ecological balance of their habitats.

4. Western Brown Snake (United States)

The western brown snake of the United States (Storeria dekayi wrightorum) is a subspecies of the northern brown snake found in the western portion of its range, mainly in the southwestern United States. This small, nonvenomous snake resembles its northern relatives, with a brown or grayish-brown body and a pale belly.

Western brown snakes prefer damp habitats, such as areas near streams or gardens, where they hunt for small snails by extracting the invertebrates from their shells.

5. Texas Brown Snake

The Texas brown snake (Storeria dekayi texana) is a subspecies of the northern brown snake found primarily in the southern United States, particularly in Texas. This small, nonvenomous snake typically has a dark brown body with a lighter stripe running along its back and dark markings around its eyes.

Texas brown snakes frequently take refuge beneath logs, rocks, and other debris, where they forage for insects, slugs, and various small prey. Though small and often overlooked, these snakes play a vital role in managing pest populations within their ecosystems.

6. King Brown Snake

Despite its name, the king brown snake (Pseudechis australis), also referred to as the mulga snake, is not a true brown snake but rather a member of the black snake family. Found across Australia, the king brown snake is one of the country’s largest venomous snakes. It exhibits a wide array of color variations, ranging from brown to copper to olive, with distinctive two-toned scales that give it a reticulated appearance.

While the king brown snake's venom is not as potent as that of the eastern brown snake, its substantial venom output still makes it extremely dangerous. This snake is recognized for its robust physique and remarkable adaptability, thriving in diverse environments ranging from deserts to coastal regions.

7. Strap-Snouted Brown Snake

The strap-snouted brown snake (Pseudonaja aspidorhyncha) is a venomous species native to Australia. It is closely related to both the eastern and western brown snakes, but can be easily identified by its chisel-shaped snout. Its coloration ranges from brown to gray, often featuring reddish hues.

Strap-snouted brown snakes are found in south-central Australia, where they inhabit a wide range of environments. Like other species within the Pseudonaja genus, they carry potent venom, making them both dangerous and an essential part of their ecosystems.

8. Eastern Smooth Earth Snake

The eastern smooth earth snake (Virginia valeriae) is often mistaken for a brown snake due to its brownish hue, but it is not a true brown snake. This small, harmless species is found in the eastern United States, preferring areas with leaf cover or loose, sandy soil to burrow in.

Eastern smooth earth snakes typically range in color from light to dark brown, with a smooth, shiny texture. These reclusive creatures primarily hunt earthworms and small invertebrates, offering a natural benefit to gardens and forests by controlling pest populations.

9. Brown Tree Snake

The brown tree snake (Boiga irregularis) is an invasive species in Guam, although it is native to Australia and parts of Papua New Guinea. Known for its climbing prowess, this mildly venomous snake has made a significant ecological impact in Guam, particularly by threatening bird populations.

Brown tree snakes typically exhibit a range of colors from light to dark brown, with darker crossbands across their bodies. These nocturnal creatures are often found residing in trees or hiding in crevices during daylight hours. Although invasive in certain areas, the brown tree snake plays a crucial role as a predator in its native environment.