Dog-Faced Water Snake
Cerberus rynchops
A common, blunt-snouted brackish-water snake of Asian estuaries and mangroves, named for its somewhat dog-like facial profile.
- Adult length
- 0.5-1 m (1.6-3.3 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
The dog-faced water snake is a widespread, highly aquatic species found throughout the estuaries and coastal wetlands of South and Southeast Asia. Its common name refers to its distinctively blunt, elongated snout.
How to identify it
- Blunt, somewhat elongated snout giving a dog-like facial profile
- Dorsal coloration variable, typically brown, gray, or olive with darker blotches or bands
- Eyes positioned high on the head, an adaptation for a mostly submerged lifestyle
- Rough or weakly keeled scales in many populations
- Stocky, moderately muscular body
- Adults typically 0.5-1 m in length
Habitat & range
Inhabits estuaries, mangroves, tidal mudflats, and brackish coastal waters across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka through Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. Tolerates a range of salinities and is commonly encountered in intertidal zones and coastal marshes.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Primarily nocturnal, hunting fish and crustaceans in shallow brackish water. Takes small, active prey.
It is a live-bearing species, producing moderate-sized litters of live young.
Frequently asked questions
Why is it called the dog-faced water snake?
Its blunt, elongated snout gives it a facial profile reminiscent of a dog.
Where is the dog-faced water snake found?
It occurs in estuaries and coastal brackish waters across South and Southeast Asia.
What does the dog-faced water snake eat?
It primarily preys on fish and crustaceans in shallow coastal waters.
Dog-Faced Water Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Dog-Faced Water Snake.
