Dragon snake facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dragon snake |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Xenodermus
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| Species: |
javanicus
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The dragon snake (scientific name: Xenodermus javanicus) is a small, non-venomous snake. It's also known by names like the Javan mudsnake or rough-backed litter snake. These snakes are famous for their unique bumpy scales and a cool defense trick: they stiffen their whole body when they feel scared! Dragon snakes are active at night and love to eat frogs, tadpoles, and small fish. They are quite tricky to keep as pets, and most don't survive long in captivity.
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Where Do Dragon Snakes Live?
Dragon snakes live in Southeast Asia. You can find them in countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Myanmar. They also live on big islands like Sumatra, Java, and Borneo. These snakes love wet places near water. They can be found in forests, swamps, marshes, and even rice fields. They usually live in areas that are about 500 to 1100 meters (about 1600 to 3600 feet) above sea level.
What Does a Dragon Snake Look Like?
A dragon snake has a clear head and a long tail. Its body is thin and a bit flat from side to side. An adult dragon snake can grow to be about 50 centimeters (almost 20 inches) long.
It's possible to tell male and female dragon snakes apart. Females are usually bigger than males. They also have thinner, shorter tails. Males, on the other hand, are smaller. They have thicker, longer tails.
Dragon Snake Behavior
How Do Dragon Snakes Have Babies?
Dragon snakes lay eggs to have their babies. They don't lay many eggs at once, usually only 2 to 4 eggs.
When Are Dragon Snakes Active?
Dragon snakes are nocturnal. This means they are most active at night. During the day, they usually hide and rest.
What Do Dragon Snakes Eat?
Dragon snakes are carnivores, which means they eat meat. Their favorite foods are frogs, tadpoles (baby frogs), and small fish.
Cool Dragon Snake Defenses!
When a dragon snake feels threatened, it has a special way to protect itself. It will stiffen its entire body to try and scare away danger. They might also release a stinky smell, called a musk, to make predators leave them alone.
Are Dragon Snakes Safe?
Dragon snakes are not very common in the northern parts of their home range. However, they are quite common in Java. There aren't many big threats to these snakes right now. They can even live in wet farm areas like rice fields. But, they could be in danger from pollution caused by farming chemicals.
