Most snakes (even harmless ones like Storeria) will flatten their heads and bodies when they feel threatened so they will appear more intimidating. This often confuses people who have been taught to look for the "triangular head" when trying to determine if a snake is venomous or not. Your best bet is just to get a good field guide to help you identify snakes in your area.

Here's a shot of a garter doing the same thing: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3412/3492665348_b1a81e939d.jpg

Hope that helps.
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- Natalie
(San Francisco Bay Area)

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