Andaman Cat Snake (Boiga andamanensis) is a species of non-venomous colubrid snake found in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. It is a relatively small and slender snake that preys on small vertebrates, including lizards and frogs.
Andaman Cat Snake has a slender body with a small, pointed head and large eyes. The scales are smooth and glossy, giving the snake a shiny appearance. The base coloration is usually brown or gray, with irregular patches of darker brown or black on the back and sides. The belly is cream-colored, with irregular black markings.
Scalation
Andaman Cat Snake has a distinctive scalation pattern that distinguishes it from other snake species. It has 15 rows of dorsal scales at midbody, which are smooth and glossy. The ventral scales number between 188 and 203, and the subcaudal scales number between 47 and 64. The scales on the head are small and imbricate, and there are 9 supralabial scales and 10-11 sublabial scales.
Scalation of Andaman Cat Snake (Boiga andamanensis):
- Dorsal scales: Andaman Cat Snake has 15 rows of smooth and glossy dorsal scales at midbody.
- Ventral scales: The number of ventral scales on Andaman Cat Snake can vary between 188 and 203.
- Subcaudal scales: The number of subcaudal scales on Andaman Cat Snake can vary between 47 and 64.
- Head scales: The scales on the head of Andaman Cat Snake are small and imbricate, meaning they overlap each other like shingles on a roof.
- Supralabial scales: Andaman Cat Snake has 9 supralabial scales, which are the scales on the upper lip.
- Sublabial scales: Andaman Cat Snake has 10-11 sublabial scales, which are the scales on the lower lip.
Overall, the scalation of Andaman Cat Snake is quite distinctive and can help to differentiate it from other snake species.
Appearance
Natural History
Andaman Cat Snake is primarily nocturnal and arboreal, spending much of its time in trees and bushes. It is a secretive snake that is rarely seen in the wild, and is often mistaken for a venomous snake due to its similar appearance to some of the more dangerous snake species. The diet of Andaman Cat Snake consists of small vertebrates, including lizards and frogs.
Habitat
Andaman Cat Snake is found in a variety of habitats, including forests, grasslands, and agricultural areas. It is native to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India.
Behavior
Andaman Cat Snake is a relatively docile snake that is not known to be aggressive towards humans. However, like all snakes, it may bite if it feels threatened or cornered. When threatened, the snake will often inflate its body and hiss loudly to deter predators.
Reproduction
Little is known about the reproductive habits of Andaman Cat Snake. It is believed to be oviparous, meaning that it lays eggs rather than giving birth to live young. Clutches may contain up to 8 eggs, although the typical clutch size is likely smaller.
Location
Andaman Cat Snake is native to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands of India. It is found throughout much of its range, although it is often overlooked due to its secretive nature.
Venomous or Non-venomous
Andaman Cat Snake is a non-venomous snake and is not considered to be a danger to humans. While the snake is not venomous, it is still important to treat it with respect and caution, as all snakes are potentially capable of biting if they feel threatened.
Venom Strength
As mentioned earlier, Andaman Cat Snake is a non-venomous species, meaning it doesn’t produce any venom that is harmful to humans. However, if bitten, it can cause mild irritation and swelling, similar to that of a bee or wasp sting. It’s important to remember that all snake bites should be taken seriously and immediate medical attention should be sought if bitten by any snake, venomous or non-venomous.
