The first call of the summer was received regarding the Texas blind snake. It is not unusual for this tiny snake to appear once or twice during the year in the Kingsville area.

The Texas blind snake prowls at night and the early evening hours feeding on insect larvae, ant pupae, and termites. 2010 has been an active insect year insuring that an abundant food supply has been available for the snake.

Since it feeds on numerous damaging pests, the blind snake is considered beneficial.

However, try convincing someone that the snake is one of nature’s good guys after they have been startled in the bathroom by the tiny creature.

The Texas blind snake, Leptotyphlops dulcis, is a relative of the Boas. Unlike its cousin the Boa, blind snakes are very small. The largest one reported was 10-3/4 inches long.

The normal sized adult is 5 to 8 inches in length. The small snake is blind and its eyes are buried beneath translucent scales.

Their dentation is reduced to a few teeth on the lower jaw and they never bite people.

Because of the blind snake’s reddish-brown color combined with its habit of burrowing, it is often called a “worm snake.”

Quite common in the Texas landscape, the blind snake can be found underneath logs and stones.

They are most often encountered in areas where moisture is available and after rains.

Occasionally they are found under house foundations and in bath traps.

When the Texas blind snake gets in the home, it is usually through a crack or crevice in the bathroom. They are attracted to bathrooms and kitchens since these areas have the most moisture available. Control can be difficult.

Often the best approach to controlling the blind snake is to eliminate its food source.

Making sure that no insect larvae, ant pupae and termites are around for the blind snake to feed on will cause the small snake to move to a more hospitable environment.

Keeping debris such as rocks and logs from around the foundation of the house will also help keep the snake out of the house.

Although finding one in the house can be quite upsetting, keep in mind that they may very well be there feeding on truly damaging insect pest.