The common wolf snake (Lycodon aulicus)
The common wolf snake (Lycodon aulicus), belongs to the family Colubridae.
0
0
0
common wolf snake
งูสร้อยเหลือง
| Animal Information |
Common Name (Thai): งูสร้อยเหลือง
Common Name (English): common wolf snake
Scientific Name: Lycodon aulicus
| Average Lifespan |
10–15 Years10–15 Years
| Size and Weight |
0.5–1.5 kg0.5–1.5 kg
| Places to Visit |
- Khao Kheow Open Zoo
Chiang Mai Zoo
Nakhon Ratchasima Zoo
The common wolf snake (Lycodon aulicus), belongs to the family Colubridae.
Interesting Facts
Prominent Characteristics:
The common wolf snake is a small to medium-sized snake, with an average body length of approximately 90–100 centimeters. It has a broad and flattened head with a rounded snout. The tail is long and tapers to a fine point. The body is covered with scales. The upper part of the head is dark purplish-brown, with a distinct yellowish-brown transverse band running across the nape. This marking gives the impression of the snake wearing a yellow necklace, which is the origin of its common Thai name, "งูสร้อยเหลือง" (Yellow Necklace Snake).
During the daytime, the common wolf snake usually hides under logs or woodpiles in moist forested areas. At night, it becomes active and comes out to hunt. This species is non-venomous, but it may strike if disturbed or threatened.
Primary Diet:
The common wolf snake primarily preys on small reptiles, including geckos, skinks, and agamid lizards, as well as amphibians such as frogs and toads in its natural habitat. In captivity, such as in zoological institutions, it is known to consume lizards and small rodents.
Habitat:
The common wolf snake is native to Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, and throughout India. In its natural environment, it is commonly found in open or semi-open forests and is rarely encountered in dense forests.
Reproduction:
The Common wolf snake reproduces twice per year. It is an oviparous species, laying 3–11 eggs per clutch. The incubation period lasts approximately 35 days before hatching.
Lifespan:
In the wild, the Common wolf snake has an average lifespan of approximately 10–15 years.
Conservation Status:
The Common wolf snake is currently listed as Least Concerned (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
However, its habitat is declining due to deforestation, urban development, and agricultural expansion. Additionally, hunting pressure and climate change are contributing factors that may impact its population dynamics over time.
Interesting Facts:
The Common wolf snake uses its tongue to detect scents, allowing it to effectively locate prey. It collects airborne particles that interact with a specialized organ in its mouth known as the Jacobson's organ, enhancing its sensory capabilities.
