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