Sharp-Tailed Snake

Range

Western Oregon and California, with some patchy areas in central Washington and southwestern British Columbia.

Habitats

Often hiding under rocks and logs, or burrowed in soft soil. Prefers moist forests or mixed woodlands with plentiful shade and leaf litter. Often found in urban gardens, and frequently gets stuck inside homes.

Identification

A small thin snake that reaches 12-18 inches in length and has a unique spine at the tip of its tail for stabilizing its slimy prey. Its sides are usually some shade of brown or grey, with orange, pink, or reddish coloration on its back. The ventrum is patterned with thin black and white crossbars down the entire length of the snake. It has a dark bar running along the side of its face, through its eye.

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