What is a Wolf Snake?

The Lycodon capucinus, or common wolf snake, is a reptile found widespread across Southeast Asia. Wolf snakes are members of the Colubridae family and, depending upon its species, it ranges from light to dark brown in color. These types of snakes are nonpoisonous.

Since several species of wolf snake exist in multiple countries, they are often known by many different names. Some of these include Hindi Garar, Marathi Kandva, and Singhalese Tel karawala. Though the snakes are considered very adaptable, and can sometimes be found in cities, they typically keep to rural areas and small villages.

Wolf snakes have 17 rows of scales making up their middle body sections. Rather than the fangs that are typical of most snakes, the wolf snake features a set of elongated teeth similar to the canines that a wolf would have. This is how the snake received its name. Depending upon the specific species of snake, it may feature a light shade of brown with white splotches, to dark purple-tinted brown skin without splotches or stripes.

Most baby wolf snakes have some type of stripe or splotch at birth. When the snake's clutch of eggs hatch, they emerge with either white or yellow markings. In many species, however, these markings fade over time as the snakes progress into adulthood.

Due to the splotches on some varieties of wolf snake, the creatures are sometimes mistaken for the poisonous krait and killed. Krait snakes, however, can be distinguished by their triangular shapes and thinner stripes. Younger wolf snakes with color splotches also typically have a less frequent pattern of color than krait snakes.

Small lizards, such as skinks and geckos, make up the majority of the wolf snake's diet. The snakes are also known to eat frogs when they are available. When the snakes take up residence in people's homes, they may also eat mice.

Snakes of this species that do live in human homes usually occupy small crevices and remain unnoticed. Though not poisonous, the snake will still strike when threatened, causing a painful bite. If striking cannot be executed due to lack of space or if the snake is blocked, it will usually retreat into a coil, ducking its head down into the center of its spiraled body.

A separate species of wolf snake exists in Africa. These snakes are members of the Lycophidion family. The small snake may grow up to 20 inches (50 cm) in length. Like its Asian counterpart, it dines chiefly on small lizards.

A Wolf Snake is a non-venomous serpent belonging to the genus Lycodon. These snakes are primarily found in Asia, with their habitat ranging from India and Sri Lanka to parts of East and Southeast Asia. They are known for their distinctive pattern and resemblance to the venomous krait, which is an example of Batesian mimicry.

The Wolf Snake derives its name from its large, curved teeth that are reminiscent of a wolf's canines. These teeth are adapted for grasping and holding onto prey, which is typically small vertebrates like lizards and rodents. Despite their fierce name, Wolf Snakes are harmless to humans.

Wolf Snakes primarily feed on small vertebrates, such as lizards, frogs, and rodents. They are nocturnal hunters, using their keen sense of smell and stealth to track down prey at night. Once they locate their target, they quickly strike and subdue it using their sharp teeth to prevent escape.

Wolf Snakes can be identified by their slender bodies, which are usually dark with white or yellow bands or stripes. They have a distinctive head shape with a somewhat flattened snout. However, identification should be approached with caution, as they can be mistaken for venomous snakes like kraits due to their similar appearance.

Wolf Snakes are not dangerous to humans as they are non-venomous and generally shy creatures. They tend to avoid human interaction and will only bite if threatened or handled. Even then, their bite is not harmful to humans, although it is advisable to seek medical attention if bitten by any wild animal.

The conservation status of Wolf Snakes varies depending on the specific species. While many species do not face immediate threats, habitat destruction and human encroachment can pose risks. Some species may be listed as endangered or vulnerable in certain regions, emphasizing the need for habitat conservation efforts to ensure their survival.