Rim Rock Crowned Snake
Tantilla oolitica
A rare, tiny Florida endemic snake with a dark crown-like head cap, restricted to limestone rockland habitat.
- Venomous?
- Mildly venomous
- Adult length
- 18-25 cm (7-10 in)
- Range
- Extreme southern Florida, including the Miami Rock Ridge and upper Florida Keys
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Overview
The Rim Rock Crowned Snake is one of the rarest snakes in the United States, confined to a narrow strip of pine rockland and hammock habitat on the Miami Rock Ridge and a few Florida Keys. Extensive habitat loss to urban development has made it a species of significant conservation concern.
This small, fossorial colubrid is rarely observed due to its subterranean lifestyle and restricted range. It is a member of the crowned snake genus, characterized by a dark cap over the head.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with smooth, shiny scales
- Light tan to yellowish-brown dorsal coloration
- Dark brown to black head cap ('crown') with a relatively straight posterior edge
- Pale cream to white underside
- Tiny head, not distinct from the neck; round pupils
- Similar to other Tantilla species but distinguished by range (limestone rockland of extreme south Florida) and subtle head-cap shape
Habitat & range
Restricted to pine rockland and rockland hammock habitats underlain by oolitic limestone in Miami-Dade County and the upper Florida Keys. Shelters under limestone rocks, leaf litter, and debris, using natural crevices and solution holes in the rock for cover.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Secretive and fossorial, emerging mainly at night or after rain. Feeds on small invertebrates such as centipedes. Reproduces by laying small clutches of eggs. Its restricted range and habitat specificity make it highly vulnerable to development and habitat fragmentation.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Rim Rock Crowned Snake venomous?
It has mild venom used to subdue small invertebrate prey, but it is harmless to humans.
Why is this species rare?
It is restricted to a small, fragmented range of limestone rockland habitat in south Florida that has been heavily developed.
Where is it found?
Only in Miami-Dade County's pine rocklands and parts of the upper Florida Keys.
What does it look like?
A tiny tan snake with a dark cap over its head and a pale belly.
Rim Rock Crowned Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Rim Rock Crowned Snake.
