Cryptophis pallidiceps explained

Cryptophis pallidiceps, also known as the western Carpentaria snake or northern small-eyed snake, is a species of venomous snake endemic to Australia. The specific epithet pallidiceps (“pale-headed”) refers to its body markings.

Description

The snake grows to an average of about 50 cm in length. The upper body is brown, grey or black, often with a paler head. The sides of the body are yellow-orangish, the belly white.[1]

Behaviour

The species is viviparous, with an average litter size of four. It feeds on lizards and frogs.[1]

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs in the Kimberley region of Western Australia and the Top End of the Northern Territory. It inhabits tropical woodlands.[1] The type locality is Port Essington in the Northern Territory.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Northern small-eyed snake . . Australian Reptile Online Database . Stewart Macdonald . 29 May 2021.
  2. Web site: Cryptophis pallidiceps (GÜNTHER, 1858). . Reptile Database . Peter Uetz and Jakob Hallermann . 29 May 2021.