on my driveway

bob chatham · 03-17-09, 06:19 AM

I have found a snakelike critter. it is approx 12 to 14 inches long -- very very thin --- it is the color or a spaghetti noodle but is about half the diameter. I live in NC so it has been too cold for most reptiles, although we have had a lot of rain the last few days. This thing moves very slowly and has a black head and tail -- about the size of a pin head. Granted this may be some type of worm. If anyone has any ideas I would appreciate it. I am taking it to the county Ag agent at lunch. Thanks

Chu'Wuti · 03-17-09, 08:10 AM

Photos would help with identification, but it sounds like you've found a horsehair worm. Check out the info here:

Horsehair Worms | University of Kentucky Entomology

If that's not it, let us know what else you learn! Your county Ag agent is a good source of info.

Kmef07 · 03-18-09, 05:19 PM

CHU' how on gods green earth did you know that? you are a damn encyclopedia....that is a compliment.

siz · 03-19-09, 10:01 AM

ugh those things are creepy!

Smilts · 03-19-09, 02:21 PM

I'm assuming where maybe I shouldnt that writing a book can help to greatly improve research skills.

Chu'Wuti · 03-19-09, 04:36 PM

Oh, yeah--I do know how to conduct research!! And thanks for the compliment!

As it happens, though, last year my DIL's father found thousands of those in his yard and asked me to identify them. So when Bob asked, I was pretty sure that's what he had.

Of course, we still don't have a photo of what Bob found, and Bob hasn't reposted to tell us what his Ag agent said they are, so we have no confirmation that my guess is correct.