Streaked Kukri Snake
Oligodon taeniatus
A small streaked colubrid of Southeast Asia belonging to the harmless, egg-eating kukri snake group.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.6 m (1-2 ft)
- Range
- Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Streaked Kukri Snake is a small colubrid found across parts of mainland Southeast Asia, showing longitudinal streaking rather than the bold banding seen in some relatives. Like other members of Oligodon, it possesses specialized rear teeth adapted for slitting open reptile eggs.
It is harmless to humans and rarely encountered due to its secretive, burrowing habits.
How to identify it
- Slender body with pale longitudinal stripes or streaks on a brownish background
- Smooth dorsal scales
- Small head not distinct from neck, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.3-0.6 m in length
- Striped pattern differentiates it from banded Oligodon relatives
Habitat & range
Found in lowland forests, scrub, and agricultural areas across Thailand and neighboring Southeast Asian countries, typically in loose soil habitats.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal and fossorial, spending daylight hours hidden under leaf litter or in burrows. It preys on reptile eggs and small lizards. It is oviparous, producing small clutches of eggs.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Streaked Kukri Snake venomous?
No, it is harmless to humans.
How is it recognized?
By its pale longitudinal stripes on a brownish body and smooth scales.
What does it eat?
Reptile eggs and small lizards.
Where does it live?
In lowland forests and scrub habitats of Southeast Asia.
Streaked Kukri Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Streaked Kukri Snake.
