About Tantilla melanocephala (Linnaeus, 1758)
Tantilla melanocephala (Linnaeus, 1758) can reach a total length of 50 cm (20 in), including a 10 cm (3.9 in) long tail. Its dorsal side is pale brown or red; some individuals also have 3 or 5 narrow brown stripes. The top of its head and neck are black or dark brown, while its ventral side is yellowish white. Its dorsal scales are smooth, lack apical pits, and are arranged in 15 rows at midbody. In Central America, this species occurs from Guatemala southward to Panama. In South America, it ranges from Trinidad and Tobago southward to northern Argentina. Its preferred natural habitats are grassland, savanna, and forest, found at altitudes between sea level and 2,750 m (9,020 ft). It has also been recorded in artificial habitats including pastures, gardens, and plantations. Tantilla melanocephala is oviparous.
