About Tantilla relicta Telford, 1966
Florida crowned snake (Tantilla relicta Telford, 1966) is a small, slender species of snake. Most adult individuals reach a total length (including the tail) of 7 to 9 inches, or 17 to 22 cm. The maximum recorded total length (including the tail) for this species is 24 cm, or 9.5 inches. Its dorsal scales are tan, light brown, or reddish brown. It has a brown-black head, chin, and parts of the neck. Some individuals have a pale band pattern on the head; this marking is often absent in snakes from north-central Florida. The species may also have a dark band across its neck. The underside of the Florida crowned snake can be white, pink, or whitish-yellow. In populations along the Atlantic Coast, the snake’s nose may be cream-tan. This snake is most commonly found in north and central Florida, and in the sandy habitats of the Florida Gulf coast. It is rarely observed in the southernmost border region of Georgia. It is strongly associated with sandy habitats, including Florida sand pine scrub, pine flatwoods, and pine hammocks. Very little is known about the reproduction of the Florida crowned snake. It lays elongated eggs. Researchers believe its reproductive habits are probably similar to other species in the genus Tantilla. It is assumed that sexually mature females lay their eggs between late spring and August.
