Neelaps calonotos facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Neelaps calonotos |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Neelaps
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| Species: |
calonotos
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| Synonyms | |
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Neelaps calonotos, also known commonly as the black-striped burrowing snake, the black-striped snake, and the western black-striped snake, is a species of mildly venomous burrowing snake endemic to Australia. The specific epithet calonotos ("beautiful-backed") refers to the patterning on the upper surface of the body.
Description
Neelaps calanotos rarely grows to a total length (including tail) of more than 28 cm (11 in), and is considered to be Australia's smallest venomous snake. Females are larger than males. Dorsally, it is reddish-orange, with a narrow black stripe along the back. The belly is whitish. Three black patches cover the snout, top of the head, and the nape.
Reproduction
Neelaps calonotos is oviparous, with an average clutch size of four (range 2–6).
Behaviour and diet
Neelaps calonotos is nocturnal, staying in loose sand during the day and preying on small animals such as lizards at night.
Geographic range and habitat
Neelaps calonotos occurs in coastal south-western Western Australia. It lives in dunes as well as open woodlands and shrublands with sandy soils.
