Common Kukri Snake
Oligodon arnensis
A small, harmless banded colubrid named for its curved, kukri-knife-shaped rear teeth used to slit open reptile eggs.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.6 m (1-2 ft)
- Range
- Indian subcontinent
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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.
Despite occasionally being mistaken for young venomous species due to its banded pattern, it is entirely harmless to humans.
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 venomous banded snakes
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
Is the Common Kukri Snake venomous?
No, it is completely harmless to humans.
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.
