Cattien Kukri Snake – Oligodon cattienensis – Vassilieva et al., 2013

Science name: Oligodon cattienensis – Vassilieva et al., 2013

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

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

Description: Physical Characteristics:
Oligodon cattienensis is a medium-sized snake with distinctive morphological traits, including deeply forked hemipenes without spines. It has 17-17-15 dorsal scale rows, 167-178 ventrals, and 31-35 subcaudals. Its nasal scales are entire, and it has two small postocular scales of equal size. The body is adorned with 24-35 large dark-edged vertebral blotches, separated by a yellow-orange or red vertebral stripe, a distinguishing feature of this species.

The head has a pattern of an ocular band, temporal bands, and an elongated chevron. The ventrals are pink or whitish in adults, while juveniles show reddish tones. Some ventrals may feature a quadrangular dark blotch on each lateral side, while others may be entirely dark.

Coloration and Appearance:
In addition to the striking head and body patterns, the species displays variation in life coloration. Juveniles exhibit a reddish hue along the vertebral stripe, while adults tend to have a more subdued yellow or orange stripe.

Distribution and habitat: Elevation:
No specific elevation range has been recorded for this species.

Area:
Oligodon cattienensis is endemic to Vietnam and has been documented from the lowland forests of Cat Tien National Park, Dong Nai Province, in southern Vietnam.

Habitat:
The species inhabits lowland forests, specifically within Cat Tien National Park. Like other members of the Oligodon genus, Oligodon cattienensis is likely terrestrial, dwelling in leaf litter and under forest debris. It thrives in moist, evergreen forest environments but specific microhabitat preferences remain poorly documented.

Behaviour and ecology: Lifestyle:
Like other species in the Oligodon genus, Oligodon cattienensis is presumed to be nocturnal and terrestrial. It likely forages in leaf litter for small vertebrates, invertebrates, and possibly eggs, as is common among kukri snakes. Its small size and cryptic coloration help it blend into the forest floor, avoiding predators.

Reproduction:
Although specific reproductive details for Oligodon cattienensis are not available, it is presumed to be oviparous like other kukri snakes, laying eggs in hidden areas such as leaf litter or under logs.

Conservation and status: IUCN Red List Category and Criteria:
Oligodon cattienensis has not yet been assessed by the IUCN Red List, as it was recently described in 2013.

Population Trend:
The population trend of Oligodon cattienensis is unknown. It has been observed in lowland forests, but there is insufficient data on population size and stability.

Threats:
Potential threats to the species include habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural expansion, which are common concerns for forest-dwelling species in Southeast Asia. Logging and land conversion within its range could have negative impacts on its population.

Conservation Actions:
No specific conservation actions are in place for Oligodon cattienensis at this time. Further research on its distribution, ecology, and population trends is needed to assess potential conservation measures. Given its presence in Cat Tien National Park, it may benefit from the protected status of this area.