The Reptiles and Amphibians of Utah

Description: A patternless tan or brown body with a black cap on top of the head. The ventral has a salmon-pink, orange, or red stripe. This snake has smooth scales. 

Size: A very small species averaging 8 to 10 inches in length.

Venom: Black-headed snakes produce a mild venom used to subdue their prey. The venom is specialized toward insects and other arthropods. The venom is considered medically insignificant and is not considered harmful to humans.

Range and Habitat: This snake occurs from Southern Washington County, east toward the Colorado River, and northward through the Colorado Plateau. It inhabits desertscrub, desert shrublands, and semidesert grasslands. They are found below 6,000 feet in elevation. 

Similar Species: This distinctive snake is not easily confused with any other species in Utah.