It is found from Mexico, through much of the eastern United States and south central British Columbia, Canada[3][4] It is characterized by dark brown systematic blotches down its back and sides, a bar behind each eye, vertical pupils, and neck adornment.

It also has a black or dark brown bar behind the eyes that contrasts against the white or pale gray upper labial scales.

Not much is known as far as population densities and exact range due to the highly cryptic nature of the night snake.

They are usually seen at night while crossing roads, but can be found under rocks, boards, dead branches and other surface litter during the day.

A study in southwestern Idaho found that the night snake's diet consisted mostly of side-blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana) and their eggs.