Southwestern Black-headed Snake (Tantilla hobartsmithi) - HM 116848
Observer:
McCabe, Janine
Observed:
2012-08-02 06:58:00
Last Modified:
2016-02-23 14:52:16
Country:
United States of America
State:
Arizona
County:
Pima
Age:
Deceased:
Notes:
Two individuals of Tantilla hobartsmithii were consumed by one Incilius alvarius (Sonoran Desert Toad) and their remains were discovered in one large toad scat. Although I did not witness this action, I very commonly see the alvarius in my yard in the monsoon season and frequently see their scat.

I was busy sweeping my patio when I tried to brush away the large toad scat. It was partially stuck to the pavement so I got more forceful with the broom and broke it up. I immediately saw what looked like an earthworm, but upon close inspection noticed it was Tantilla hobartsmithii. There was another balled up tight in the rest of the scat. (see photos)

The larger of the snakes was close to adult size. I did not measure the snake, but have seen them in my yard previously on many occasions. The second snake was smaller, and possibly a young of year.

Other contents within the scat include; harvester ant parts, June Bug parts, and a few mesquite seeds that likely stuck to their tongue while they were preying on bugs.
Vouchers