Kingdom Animalia Order Squamata Family Colubridae Scientific name Boiga wallachi Rank Species | Phylum Chordata Suborder Serpentes Subfamily Colubrinae Higher classification Boiga | |
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Similar Boiga dightoni, Boiga nuchalis, Boiga andamanensis, Boiga, Snake | ||
The Nicobar cat snake, Boiga wallachi, is a species of rear-fanged colubrid found in the Nicobar Islands and known from the islands of Great Nicobar and Little Nicobar. It is named in honour of Van Wallach, an American herpetologist.
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Description
Boiga wallachi is a medium-sized member of its genus, measuring 73.5–105.0 cm (28.9–41.3 in) in snout–vent length and reaching a total body length of at least 131 cm (52 in). The head is small and distinct from the neck; the eyes are large. The dorsum is cinnamon coloured and edged with brownish olive. The ventrum is spectrum yellow with dark, rounded blotches.
Ecology
Boiga wallachi is a nocturnal snake inhabiting undisturbed tropical moist forests. It seems to be strictly terrestrial. These snakes feed on eggs (including those of domestic chickens) as well as on frogs and other small animals. It is oviparous.
Conservation
The populations of Boiga wallachi seem currently stable, although they might have been significantly reduced by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. They can enter anthropogenic habitats to forage, but it is unclear whether they can persist in such habitats. The species occurs within the Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve, but there is no strict habitat protection.