Kenneth L. Krysko photo.

Scientific name: Elaphe guttata rosacea

Description: Average adult size is usually 24 inches (61 cm), but can reach up to 48 inches (122 cm). They have an elongated head, slender body, and large eyes. The typical corn snake color patterns (comprising black borders around the dorsal and lateral blotches, a checkerboard belly pattern, dark stripes on the underside of the tail, and a spear-shape on the head and neck) are reduced or absent in the Keys cornsnake.

Kenneth L. Krysko photo.

Reduced spear-shaped pattern on top of Keys corn snake's head and neck.

Keys corn snake: Left to right: Top of the head; underside of the head (chin and throat).

Keys corn snake: Left to right: Side of the head; front (face view) of the head.

Range: It is found throughout the Florida Keys. Due to habitat loss, populations inhabiting the lower Keys are presently considered a 'Species of Special Concern' by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The subspecies is not found outside of the Florida Keys.

Habitat: Found in tropical hammocks and pinelands, and residential areas.

Comments: . The Keys corn snake is primarily active at night. It is both a terrestrial borrower and extremely good climber. It is found under limestone rocks and logs, and in trees under bark and within palm fronds.

It feeds on lizards, frogs, rodents, and birds and their eggs.

It lays eggs. Breeding occurs from March-May, 6-30 eggs are laid during the summer, and newborns hatch from July-September. It can live up to 22 years in captivity.

Comparison with other species: The mole kingsnakes (Lampropeltis calligaster) have a light Y-shaped pattern on the back of the head and neck, a clouded brownish belly, and lack a distinct neck.

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