
Telescopus dhara dhara
A species of Old world catsnakes Scientific name : Telescopus dhara dhara Genus : Old world catsnakes
Telescopus dhara dhara, A species of Old world catsnakes
Scientific name: Telescopus dhara dhara
Genus: Old world catsnakes
Content
Description General Info

Description

Telescopus dhara dhara is an agile hunter, employing ambush tactics to ensnare its prey—mainly scorpions, centipedes, and insects—thus playing an essential role in controlling these arthropod populations. Remarkably adept at night hunting, it uses its acute sensory perception in low-light conditions to its advantage, indirectly contributing to nocturnal ecosystem balance.

General Info

Lifespan
8-12 years
Diet
Telescopus dhara dhara predominantly feeds on smaller reptiles, specifically skinks and snakes. Its diet also encompasses rodents occasionally, reflecting an opportunistic predatory behavior, crucial for its survival in diverse ecosystems.
Appearance
Telescopus dhara dhara is a moderate-sized snake, characterized by a slender, elongated body with smooth scales. It exhibits a unique coloration of pinkish-brown fading to white under its belly. Dotted with irregular dark blotches, this pattern enhances its camouflage. Unequivocally, its noteworthy feature is the large, vertical pupils that inspire its common name. There are no discernible differences in appearance due to age, gender, or subspecies.
Behavior
Telescopus dhara dhara is a predominantly nocturnal, solitary snake, emerging primarily in the evening to hunt for its prey, which includes reptiles like lizards and small birds. It possesses the unique adaptation of being mildly venomous, utilizing this for immobilizing prey. Telescopus dhara dhara's territorial behavior is mostly observed via their habitat preferences, with a proclivity towards rocky and sandy landscapes.

Scientific Classification

Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Colubrids Genus
Old world catsnakes Species
Telescopus dhara dhara