Common Kukri Snake
Oligodon arnensis
A small banded colubrid named for its curved, kukri-knife-shaped rear teeth used to slit open reptile eggs.
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.6 m (1-2 ft)
- Range
- Indian subcontinent
Found a snake like this?
Identify any snake from a photo, free.
Overview
The Common Kukri Snake is a small, widespread colubrid of the Indian subcontinent, named for its distinctively curved rear teeth resembling the Nepalese kukri knife. These specialized teeth are used to slit open reptile eggs, a notable dietary specialization among snakes.
It is occasionally mistaken for young banded snakes of other species due to its banded pattern.
How to identify it
- Smooth, glossy body with alternating reddish-brown to dark bands on a paler background
- Dark chevron or arrow-shaped marking often present on the head/neck
- Smooth (non-keeled) dorsal scales
- Rounded head not distinct from neck, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.3-0.6 m in length
- Small size and smooth scales help distinguish it from young banded snakes of other species
Habitat & range
Found in a wide range of habitats including scrublands, gardens, agricultural land, and forest edges across India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka, often near human settlements.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal and secretive, spending much time burrowed in loose soil or leaf litter. It feeds heavily on reptile eggs, using its specialized rear teeth to slit the shells, along with small lizards. It is oviparous, laying small clutches of a few eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called a kukri snake?
Its curved rear teeth resemble the blade of a Nepalese kukri knife, used to slit open reptile eggs.
What does it eat?
Mainly reptile eggs and small lizards.
Where is it found?
Across the Indian subcontinent, in scrublands, gardens, and agricultural areas.
Common Kukri Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Common Kukri Snake.
