Biology Reference
In-Depth Information
(A)
(B)
Plate 4.67
(A and B) Kukri snakes, genus
Oligodon
.
The colubrine genus
Oligodon
contains
approximately 68 species that feed on small vertebrates (e.g., birds, lizards) and their eggs
as well as large insects (dietary preferences vary according to species).
Oligodon
spp. have a
wide range in northern to western Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Indian subcontinent.
Oligodon
spp. are a common cause of snakebites, but only mild local effects have been documented.
An
O. arnensis
bite reported by the famous British herpetologist and physician, Frank Wall
(1868-1950), allegedly resulted in death. However, review of this case reveals Wall's own doubts
regarding the etiology of the fatal outcome. This case is critically reviewed in Section 4.3.
(A) Common or Cantor's kukri snake (
Oligodon cycluris
), Thailand.
After being bitten,
the victim brought this specimen to the medical clinic. The bite was medically insignificant.
(B) Loos snake or striped kukri snake (
Oligodon taeniatus
), Thailand.
Another specimen
killed after inflicting a medically insignificant bite, the enlarged posterior maxillary teeth are
also shown in profile (upper left corner).
Photos copyright to David A. Warrell.
