Western Black-headed Snake

Tantilla planiceps

Venom Status:

Non Venomous

 

Characteristics:

10 to 15” long when adult. Varying geographically, the black cap may or may not angle downward behind the rear of the upper jaw. It extends 3 or 4 scale rows beyond the parietal scale suture. The cap has a straight rear edge followed by a light collar. Often a few half scales of black posterior to the collar. Light vertebral stripe possible, belly whitish except in the center where it is orange.

 

Unique Features:

The cap has a straight rear edge followed by a light collar. Often a few half scales of black posterior to the collar

 

Habitat and Diet:

Desert and mountain grasslands, brushlands, and coniferous woodlands.

 

Geographic Range:

CA, UT