Angel’s Kukri Snake – Oligodon macrurus – (Angel, 1927)

Science name: Oligodon macrurus – (Angel, 1927)

Taxonomic:  Animalia>> Chordata>> Reptilia>> Squamata >> Colubridae >> macrurus

Species status: Endemic ; IUCN status: LC (Least Concern)

Description: Physical Characteristics:
Oligodon macrurus is a small snake with a distinctive long tail, which accounts for one-third of its total body length. Its back and head are grayish, with darker brown stripes extending from the eyes to the fourth and fifth supralabial scales. A dark brown stripe begins from the occipital region, running down the body but not reaching the ventral scales. It has a dark spot on its forehead and another between the stripes at the back of the head. A dark V-shaped mark is present on the neck, bordered by black edges. The body displays faint horizontal stripes, with a less pronounced pattern on the flanks. The tail features a lighter dorsal stripe with gray edges, and the ventral side is cream-colored.

Coloration and Appearance:
The overall appearance is grayish, with distinct darker brown markings on the head and body. The V-shaped neck marking is a notable feature, along with the faint dorsal stripes and dark blotches on the sides.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation:
Oligodon macrurus has been recorded at elevations below 200 meters above sea level, based on its known coastal range in Vietnam.

Area:
Oligodon macrurus is endemic to Vietnam, specifically found in a restricted coastal area between Khanh Hoa and Ninh Thuan Provinces.

Habitat:
There is limited information on the habitat of Oligodon macrurus. It is presumed to inhabit evergreen deciduous forests, sometimes being observed in proximity to human settlements. The species has been found in areas with clean water streams and large sand dunes covered with low vegetation, typically less than 1 meter high. These snakes are also known to hide in mango trees in gardens near water sources.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
Oligodon macrurus is primarily nocturnal, becoming active at night, especially after rain. It is known to hunt in small water pools within the forest, preying on amphibians that appear after rain. This species is also found in gardens near clean water sources and sand dunes.

Reproduction:
There is no specific reproductive data available for Oligodon macrurus, but like other species in the Oligodon genus, it is presumed to be oviparous, laying eggs in hidden or secure areas such as leaf litter or burrows.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Oligodon macrurus is listed as Data Deficient on the IUCN Red List due to the lack of sufficient information on its population, distribution, and potential threats.

Population Trend:
The population trend of Oligodon macrurus is currently unknown. It has only been recorded from a few localities, and its overall population size and stability are not well-documented.

Threats:
Potential threats to Oligodon macrurus include habitat destruction due to deforestation, land conversion for agriculture, and urban development. The coastal regions where the species is found may be particularly vulnerable to these pressures.

Conservation Actions:
No specific conservation actions are currently in place for Oligodon macrurus. Further research is needed to assess its population trends, habitat requirements, and potential conservation needs. The species’ presence in protected areas like Cat Tien National Park and Vinh Cuu Nature Reserve may provide some natural protection.