Blind Snakes: Typhlopidae

Blind snakes are found in tropical areas nearly around the world, including New Guinea and Australia, Southeast Asia, Africa and Madagascar, the Middle East, southeastern Europe, Mexico, Central America, and northern South America. They are also found on many islands in the Pacific and Indian oceans and in the West Indies. One species, commonly called the flowerpot blind snake or Brahminy blind snake, has traveled throughout the world, including the United States, in plant shipments. Many people mistake this species for an earthworm, but the snake is shiny, has a light-colored underside, and lacks the rings around its body that worms have.