South american hognose snake
A species of Blind ground snake Scientific name : Xenodon dorbignyi Genus : Blind ground snake
South american hognose snake, A species of Blind ground snake
Scientific name: Xenodon dorbignyi
Genus: Blind ground snake
Content
Description General Info
Photo By User:Matt872000 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Description
One of the larger hognose snake species, the south american hognose snake lives in wet and dry forests and forest margins in South America. Its dramatic patterning is thought to have evolved to mimic the extremely venomous pit viper Bothrops alternatus. Like other hognose species, it is kept as a pet, and captive breeding programs have been started by various herpers around the world.
General Info
Lifespan
10-15 years
Diet
South american hognose snake is a diet-specialized species, predominantly feeding on mollusks such as slugs and snails. Its strong jaws easily crack open the hard shells to reach the nutritious interior.
Appearance
South american hognose snake is a moderate-to-large sized snake with a robust body and smooth scales. Its primary coloration is a disruptive pattern of dark brown or black spots on a lighter brown or gray background. Males are slightly larger than females and can reach lengths of up to two meters. Its most distinguishing feature is a pair of elongated, rigid teeth located in the rear of the upper jaw.
Behavior
South american hognose snake is a nocturnal, solitary snake that features an enigmatic defensive display. It rarely burrows, usually spending its time under logs and leaf litter. Its distinct behaviors include cloacal inflation, head elevation, and body puffing when threatened. Primarily ophiophagous, it feeds on other snakes. Territorial markings are not known for this species.
Photo By User:Matt872000 , used under CC-BY-SA-3.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Scientific Classification
Phylum
Chordates Class
Reptiles Order
Lizards and snakes Family
Dipsadinae Genus
Blind ground snake Species
South american hognose snake