[3] Adults of T. melanurus grow to an average of 32 to 39 inches (81 to 99 cm) in total length (including tail).

[4] T. melanurus is found in Cuba, as well as on some nearby islands, including Cayos de San Felipe (Cayo Real), and Isla de la Juventud.

[1] T. melanurus preys upon amphibians (frogs), reptiles (lizards), birds, and mammals (rodents).

[1] The mode of reproduction of T. melanurus is unclear: it has been described as oviparous,[1] and as ovoviviparous.

[5] The subspecific name, ericksoni, is in honor of Edwin B. Erickson who assisted Schwartz in fieldwork in 1957.