Forest Sharp-Tailed Snake

Range

Range consists of small, isolated patches along the coast of northern California and southern Oregon.

Habitats

Inhabits shady, wet coastal forests and mixed woodlands. Often burrows underground and emerges after rainfall to hide under surface objects.

Identification

A smallish, thin snake with smooth scales and a sharp pointed tip on the end of its tail. It averages 5-17 inches in length and has a narrow head with an undefined neck. It often has a dark bar on the side of the face, in line with the eye. Coloration varies, but they lack patterning on their dorsum, other than longitudinal stripes on some individuals. The ventrum is lighter with a single thin dark cross bar on each caudal scute.

Learn more with Schechter Natural History's Guide to Reptiles and Amphibians