Kenneth L. Krysko photo.
Scarlet Snake, Cemophora coccinea
The scarlet snake is most frequently found under the loose bark of dead trees and logs. Its pointed nose is an aid in burrowing. In Fort Matanazas National Monument, it occurs in the live oak hammock and in the slash pine and red bay woodland. It feeds on the eggs of other reptiles.
Scarlet snakes are a harmless species that seldom bites even if picked up. It is sometimes mistaken for a coral snake. However, the scarlet snake has a red nose and a white belly, unlike the coral snake which has a black nose and rings that go all the way around its body so its belly is the same color as its back.
