In New York, where are Eastern Worm Snakes (*C. amoenus*) typically confined?
Answer
Southeastern counties with milder climates and conducive soil
Even within the broad distribution of the Eastern Worm Snake, local environmental conditions restrict population density, particularly in northern parts of its range like New York. The species is considered rare in New York, and where found, its presence is restricted to the southeastern counties. This confinement is attributed to two main factors: the need for a milder climate that avoids prolonged, deep snow cover which prevents overwintering success, and the necessity of having soil soft enough to permit the burrowing behavior that defines the species.
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