Florida's Snakes
Florida Crowned Snake
(Tantilla relicta)NON-VENOMOUS
Solid-colored
Florida Crowned Snake
Photo by Dr. Steve A. Johnson (UF). This photo may not be used without the express written permission of the photographer.
Size:
Usually 7–8 in. (max. ~9 in.)
Identification:
Slender body is tan to reddish brown. Head is brown-black and marked with a pale collar that may be “open” at the back of the neck. Collar may be absent in individuals from north-central Florida. Snout may be cream-tan in individuals found along the Atlantic Coast. Scales are smooth. Florida’s three crowned snake species are very similar in appearance, so be sure to check the range map for help with identification. This snake lays eggs.
Habitats:
Found only in Florida on central ridges in scrubs, sandhills, and pinewoods, and in coastal scrubs and dunes along the central Atlantic and Gulf coasts. This secretive snake spends most of its time burrowed in loose, sandy soils, including mounds created by burrowing animals.
Diet:
Worms, snails, centipedes, spiders, insects and their larvae
Map by Monica E. McGarrity - may be used freely for education.