How do the hatchlings of the Eastern Worm Snake typically appear compared to their adult counterparts?
Answer
They are notably darker, sometimes appearing purplish-black with an orange-red venter.
The appearance of young worm snakes immediately upon emerging from their eggs differs notably from the appearance of mature adults. While adults might exhibit browns or dark browns dorsally, the hatchlings, which emerge in late summer or early September, are described as being notably darker. This darker coloration can manifest as purplish-black dorsally. Correspondingly, their venter (belly) is highlighted by an orange-red coloration. These young emerge small, typically measuring between 3 to 4 inches in length, and are immediately independent, adopting the same fossorial lifestyle as the adults.
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