The Southeastern Crown Snake (Tantilla coronata) is a common species of small snake found in the southeastern United States. It has a black head with a yellowish crossbar on the occiput, followed by a black collar 3 to 5 scales wide. The remainder of the dorsum is reddish brown, and the underside is whitish. It has smooth scales in 15 rows and a divided anal plate. Adults average 20-25 cm (8-10 in.) long. It has enlarged grooved teeth at the rear of the upper jaw, and may produce a mild venom which is not dangerous to humans, especially because it never bites when handled. It feeds on small invertebrates such as centipedes and earth-dwelling insect larvae. Females lay eggs in the summer that hatch in the fall.