Geographic range: Nearctic, Neotropical: C. lineatus is native to Mexico. It is found in provinces of Guanajuato, Mexico, Hidalgo, Michoacan, Morelos, Oaxaca, Puebla, San Luis Potosi, Tlaxcala, Veracruz and Federal District.

Physical characteristics: A small snake (15 to 10 cm) of cyllindrical, robust body. Females are bigger than males. Body color ranges from olive brown to gray. The only visible color pattern is represented by 5 thin, dark longitudinal lines in dorsal region that run along the whole body length. Scales of the head are smooth and big. Ventral part of the body is lighter.

Food habits: Principal food items are insects, especially Orthoptera, Dermaptera and Coleoptera in larval and adult stage.

Reproduction: There is very little evidence on this subject. C. lineatus is known to be viviparous. Between 2 and 5 embryos were found inside recollected individuals.

Behavior: Terrestrial species that prefers habitats with scattered rocks, fallen tree trunks and other objects that can serve as shelters. More activity was reported form rainy season.

Habitat: Inhabits principally pine - oak forests, but was also found in thorn forests and shrubs.

Biomes: temperate forest