This isn’t a very good photo, but it serves as a record of the first snake of 2018 in the garden. As I was pruning the roses on January 28, I disturbed this eastern worm snake (Carphophis amoenus amoenus) in the leaf litter. I was surprised to find it at the surface so early in the year, particularly when there had been a foot of snow on the ground just ten days earlier.
Judging by the frequency with which I uncover them while digging, worm snakes are probably the most common snake species in the garden. More details here.
Sweetgum and Pines 
It seems to be nearly impossible to take a clear picture of our lizards. Your tiny snakes must be even worse. Getting hold of one might help. Sometimes, in the summer, the lizards wander into the house and I do catch them and put them back outside. Maybe I could detain one in a jar long enough to get a photo or two.
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I find that our local lizards are easier to photograph early in the spring when the weather is colder and they’re more focused on basking, Later in the year, I usually can’t get near them.
Snakes are generally easier to photograph, because they often freeze when disturbed. Exceptions include the worm snakes that burrow and racers that race away.
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Thanks for the tip. I will try to capture some basking lizard photos.
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Maybe it is a baby python! They start out cute and innocent, and then the neighbor’s kitty goes missing.
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I uncovered a worm snake in my garden a few weeks ago and am glad to read they don’t bite, as it will give me more courage to hold one. I’ve enjoyed reading your snake posts.
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Thanks. If my posts encourage people to look more favorably on their scaly neighbors, I am very pleased.
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I have a number of black snakes too and I’ve been trying to discern the difference between black rat snakes and black racers and you’ve given me some great clues. Also, after seeing your reference, I ordered Reptiles of North Carolina, which should help.
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