Neelaps calonotos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Neelaps calonotos |
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Neelaps
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| Species: |
calonotos
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The black-striped burrowing snake (scientific name: Neelaps calonotos) is a special type of snake. It is also called the black-striped snake or western black-striped snake. This snake is mildly venomous. It lives only in Australia, which means it is endemic there. The name calonotos means "beautiful-backed." This refers to the cool patterns on its back.
What Does It Look Like?
The black-striped burrowing snake is quite small. It usually grows to about 28 centimeters (11 inches) long. This makes it Australia's smallest venomous snake. Female snakes are generally bigger than males.
Its back is a reddish-orange color. It has a thin black stripe running along its spine. The snake's belly is whitish. It also has three black spots on its head. One is on its snout, one on the top of its head, and one on the back of its neck.
Reproduction
The black-striped burrowing snake is an oviparous animal. This means it lays eggs. A female snake usually lays about four eggs at a time. However, she can lay anywhere from two to six eggs in one clutch.
Behaviour and Diet
This snake is nocturnal. This means it is active mostly at night. During the day, it stays hidden in loose sand. When night comes, it comes out to hunt. It preys on small animals, like lizards.
Where Does It Live?
The black-striped burrowing snake lives in the coastal areas of south-western Western Australia. You can find it in sand dunes. It also lives in open woodlands and shrublands. These places all have sandy soils.
