Western shovelnose snake
A species of Ground snakes, Also known as Mohave Shovel-Nosed Snake Scientific name : Chionactis occipitalis Genus : Ground snakes
Western shovelnose snake, A species of Ground snakes
Also known as:
Mohave Shovel-Nosed Snake
Scientific name: Chionactis occipitalis
Genus: Ground snakes
Content
Description General Info
Photo By amplex4love , used under ALL RIGHTS RESERVED /Cropped and compressed from original 
Description
The Western shovelnose snake (Chionactis occipitalis) is a species of snake of the family Colubridae.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
Western shovelnose snake's diet primarily consists of invertebrates, specifically small arthropods. This species exhibits a preference for termites, beetles, and spiders, foraging primarily at night due to its nocturnal lifestyle.
Appearance
Western shovelnose snake is a small, slender snake with slightly keeled scales. Its base color is usually beige, complemented by dark-brown, wide crossbands throughout its body. It possesses a distinct light-colored, triangular mark on its head and no noticeable differences between sexes. This snake emerges from its sandy substrate and becomes particularly noticeable due to a paired, black and whitish tail used for 'caudal luring'.
Behavior
Western shovelnose snake is primarily nocturnal, active under the cover of darkness to hunt for food, primarily insects. Its mode of hunting is intriguing, employing a 'sit-and-wait' strategy to ambush prey. Generally solitary, western shovelnose snake exhibits defensive behaviors when threatened, burying itself in loose sand for protection. It lacks elaborate territorial displays and prefers avoidance to direct confrontation.
Population
Stable
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Ground snakes Species
Western shovelnose snake 
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