Storeria Occipitamaculata, also known as the red-bellied snake, is a species of nonvenomous snake commonly found in woodlands and forested areas of the northeastern United States. Although its scientific name is the most commonly used term to describe this species, there are also several synonymous names that are used interchangeably, including Storeria dekayi occipitomaculata and Storeria occipitomaculata occipitomaculata. Additionally, red-bellied snakes are sometimes referred to as DeKay's snakes, in honor of naturalist James Edward DeKay. No matter what name is used, however, one thing remains consistent: the red-bellied snake is a fascinating and important part of the ecosystem in which it lives.