Dryocalamus nympha

Common Bridal Snake is an uncommon snake found in most of the South India to Odisha and Sri Lanka also. It can be easily identified by checking very slender body and long tail covered with yellow-white bands. Also, it is similar to appearance with sister species Scarce Bridal Snake (D. gracilis) but can be identified with certainty by checking mid body rows (13 in D. nympha and 15 in D. gracilis). Scales in 13:13:13 rows with apical pits. Ventral 200-236, strongly angulate laterally, anal divided. Subcaudals 65-88, paired.

DIAGNOSTIC CHARACTERES

Head:

Rostral broader than high. Supralabial 6 or 7; 3rd & 4th in contact with eyes; loreal in contact with eyes or separated by a minute preocular; postocular 2; temporal 2+2.

Dorsal:

Smooth scales with apical pits in 13: 13: 13 rows.

Ventral:

200-236; strongly angulated laterally; anal divided.

Sub Caudal:

65-88; paired.

SIZE

Average length- 40cm 

Maximum length- 52cm

MORPHOLOGY

Dorsal:

Body slender with smooth & shiny scales of brown or blackish-brown color. Yellow or white bands present on whole dorsal body starting from neck; gradually becomes faint on posterior. Majority of scales of bands with brown-black dots. Bands on top occupy 2-4 scales and become broad on flank, often leave triangular spots touching belly.

Ventral:

Belly glossy white without any pattern. Subcaudal scales paired in zig-zag manner.

Head:

Head slightly flattened, slightly broader than neck and covered with smooth and glossy scales. A clear white or yellow collar present in all life forms. Upper head color similar to dorsal and upper lip color white or yellowish. Large eyes with vertically elliptical pupil.

Tail:

Thin, long and slender tail ends with pointed tip. Bands found in dorsal region continue on tail in faint form.

REPRODUCTION

Dryocalamus nympha, or the nymph kukri snake, is an oviparous species, meaning it lays eggs. The female snake typically produces a clutch of around 4-10 eggs and deposits them in suitable nesting sites. Once laid, the female does not provide parental care. The eggs hatch after an incubation period of several weeks to a couple of months, and the young snakes are independent from birth, resembling miniature versions of adults.

ECOLOGY

Dryocalamus nympha, also known as the nymph kukri snake, inhabits various types of habitats in its range, which includes forested areas, grasslands, and shrublands. Here are some aspects of its ecology:

BEHAVIOUR

The behavior of Dryocalamus nympha, or the nymph kukri snake, is not extensively studied, and specific details about its behavior may be limited. However, here are some general aspects of its behavior based on the behavior of related species and observations:

Nocturnal Activity:

 Dryocalamus nympha is primarily active during the night, displaying nocturnal behavior. It remains hidden or inactive during the daytime, seeking shelter in vegetation or other concealed locations.

Camouflage and Defense: 

Like many colubrid snakes, Dryocalamus nympha likely relies on camouflage to blend in with its surroundings. Its coloration and patterning help it remain inconspicuous and avoid detection by predators or prey. If threatened, it may exhibit defensive behavior such as hissing, bluffing, or adopting a defensive posture to deter potential threats.

Feeding Behavior: 

Dryocalamus nympha is a carnivorous species that feeds on small vertebrates, primarily lizards and frogs. It uses its specialized curved teeth, known as kukri teeth, to capture and subdue its prey. It may employ an ambush strategy to surprise and overpower its prey.

VENOMOSITY

Dryocalamus nympha is generally considered to be a non-venomous species. It does not possess venom glands or specialized venom-delivering fangs like many venomous snakes. Therefore, it is considered harmless to humans and poses no significant venomous threat.

GENERAL HABITAT

Dryocalamus nympha can be found in both lowland and montane regions, typically at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 1,800 meters. They are often associated with moist environments, such as near water bodies or in areas with dense vegetation.