These tiny, burrowing snakes are often mistaken for earthworms due to their slender bodies, smooth scales, and glossy appearance. Found across northern Africa, the Middle East, and parts of southwestern Asia, the Long-nosed worm snake is a quiet resident of dry, sandy, and rocky habitats—living much of its life hidden beneath the surface. Despite its modest size and subtle looks, it is a beautifully adapted specialist, perfectly designed for life underground.
Physically, the Long-nosed worm snake is extremely thin and cylindrical, resembling a shiny brown thread. Its coloration varies from light pinkish-brown to dark gray or tan, depending on soil type, allowing it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The most distinctive feature of this species is its elongated snout, which gives the species its name. The pointed head and hardened scales act like a miniature shovel, helping it push through loose sand and soil as it burrows. Its tiny, almost invisible eyes are covered by scales—another adaptation to its subterranean life—making it appear blind, though it can still detect light and movement.
The Long-nosed worm snake spends nearly its entire life underground, a lifestyle known as fossorial. It prefers loose, sandy, or loamy soils, often in deserts, semi-deserts, savannas, or dry scrublands, where it can easily dig and hide from predators. During the hottest part of the day, it remains deep in the soil, where temperatures are cooler and moisture levels are higher. It may come closer to the surface at night or after rainstorms, when the ground softens and insects become more active. On the rare occasions when it is seen above ground, it moves in a slow, wave-like motion, its glossy scales helping it slip easily over or through soft terrain.
Distribution
Egypt
Ethiopia
India
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Jordan
Kenya
Oman
Pakistan
Saudi Arabia
Somalia
Sudan
Syria
Tanzania
Turkey
UAEAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
