Wynad keelback facts for kids
The Wynad keelback, also known as Amphiesma monticola, is a harmless snake species. It lives only in the Western Ghats of India. This special snake has been found in areas like Kodagu and Wayanad.
Quick facts for kids Wynad keelback |
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| Genus: |
Amphiesma
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| Species: |
monticola
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Contents
What Does the Wynad Keelback Look Like?
Adult Wynad keelbacks are small and thin snakes. They often live hidden in the fallen leaves on the forest floor. Their heads are usually reddish. Their bodies can be brownish with a green shine, or sometimes they are a bright green color.
Scales and Markings
The Wynad keelback has special scales that help scientists identify it. It has 19 rows of scales along its back that have a ridge, like a keel on a boat. These are called keeled dorsal scales. The scales on its belly, called ventrals, number between 133 and 144.
The scale right before its tail, called the anal scale, is divided into two parts. It also has 78 to 92 scales under its tail, known as subcaudals, which are also divided.
Around its mouth, it has 8 supralabial scales. Three of these scales (the 3rd, 4th, and 5th) touch its eye. There is also one scale in front of its eye, called a preocular scale.
Color Patterns
This snake is usually green on its upper side. It has black bands that go across its body. These bands are broken up on each side by a pale spot. There's a white line that crosses its head right behind its eyes. It also has a small white dot on each side of its forehead. The scales around its eyes and some of its lip scales are white. The underside of the snake is also white.
Size of the Wynad Keelback
A full-grown Wynad keelback can be about 45 centimeters (or 18 inches) long. Its tail makes up about 14 centimeters (or 5 and a half inches) of its total length.
