Scientific name: Contia tenuis PDF version of this page The
Sharp-tailed Snake is a small snake, reaching a maximum length
of only 20 to 45 cm. On average, they are about as thick as a
pencil. Their small size, nocturnal activity, and secretive
nature make them one of B.C.’s least understood reptiles. The
name “sharp-tailed” comes from the sharply pointed scale at the
tip of the short tail. Adults are grey, yellowish brown, or red
in colour. Usually this colour is interrupted by a wide
yellowish stripe along each side. Some individuals also have a
dusting of fine black dots over the body. The belly is pale with
dark bars along the bottom of each scale. The head is wider than
the neck, the nose rounded or squared off, and they usually
sport a black mask over the eyes. Juveniles tend to be more
vivid in colour, and the entire back may be orange or red (as
seen in this photo). Click here to visit the Sharp-tailed Snake
Photo Gallery. Because of the Sharp-tailed Snake’s secretive
nature, not much is known about i