Plains Blackhead Snake (Tantilla nigriceps)
   Nonpoisonous

Description: Slender, small snake with a black head. Yellowish brown to gray body. Pinkish-white belly.

Habitat: Arid short-grass prairies, particularly in rocky areas.

Size: Typical adult length: 18-28 cm (7-11 in); Maximum: 15 inches (Collins & Collins 1993).

Diet: Centipedes, earthworms and insects.

Natural History: The current status of this snake in Nebraska is unknown. Much of its prairie habitat in SW Nebraska has been converted to wheat and row-crop fields, but sizable blocks of largely intact prairie still remains in this part of the state. Further surveys are needed to determine the current status of this species.

The Plains Blackhead snake eats earthworms and other ground dwelling insects. This species is very secretive, typically only seen under rocks or logs, or when uncovered when digging in the soil. One individual was found as deep as 2.4 m underground.

 

Range: (see map of specimens in the University of Nebraska State Museum.)