Long-tailed Snake
Stilosoma extenuatum
A rare, slender, banded fossorial snake endemic to the sandy scrub habitats of central Florida.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.4-0.7 m (1.3-2.3 ft)
- Range
- Central Florida, USA (endemic)
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Overview
The long-tailed snake is a small, secretive, and rarely seen species endemic to the Florida scrub ecosystem, particularly the Lake Wales Ridge and surrounding areas. It spends most of its life underground or beneath surface debris, rarely encountered even by experienced herpetologists.
Completely harmless to humans, it is considered uncommon and is closely associated with Florida's imperiled sandhill and scrub habitats.
How to identify it
- Slender body with numerous narrow, dark brown to black bands on a tan or grayish background
- Elongated, pointed head suited for burrowing
- Very long tail relative to body length, giving the species its name
- Smooth, glossy scales
- Distinguished from similar banded snakes by its unusually long tail and highly restricted range
Habitat & range
Endemic to sandy scrub, sandhill, and pine flatwoods habitats of central Florida, particularly the Lake Wales Ridge, where it burrows in loose sandy soil.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Fossorial and secretive, spending most of its time underground or under surface litter, rarely surfacing. Feeds primarily on other small reptiles, particularly skinks. Egg-laying.
Frequently asked questions
Is the long-tailed snake dangerous?
No, it is completely non-venomous and harmless.
Where is it found?
It is endemic to central Florida, especially the Lake Wales Ridge scrub habitats.
Why is it rarely seen?
It is highly fossorial, spending most of its life underground or under surface debris.
What does it eat?
It preys mainly on small reptiles such as skinks.
Long-tailed Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Long-tailed Snake.
