Cat-Eyed Water Snake
Gerarda prevostiana
A small, secretive mangrove snake from Asia with distinctive vertical pupils, specialized in feeding on crabs.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 40-60 cm (16-24 in)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia
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Overview
The Cat-Eyed Water Snake, also known as Prevost's cat-eyed snake, is a small mangrove-dwelling species found across South and Southeast Asia. It is named for its distinctly vertical, cat-like pupils, an unusual feature among the largely diurnal homalopsid water snakes.
It is essentially harmless to humans, feeding almost exclusively on soft-shelled molting crabs found in mangrove mud.
How to identify it
- Small, slender body with smooth scales
- Grayish to pale brown coloration, sometimes with faint darker speckling
- Distinctly vertical, elliptical pupils, unusual among water snakes
- Small head, blunt snout
- Adult length typically 40-60 cm (16-24 in)
Habitat & range
Found in mangrove forests, mudflats, and estuaries across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia. Tied closely to intertidal mangrove ecosystems.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Nocturnal, foraging in mangrove mud and shallow water. Specializes in feeding on soft-shelled crabs, particularly those that have recently molted. Reproduction is viviparous, with females giving birth to small litters of live young.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Cat-Eyed Water Snake venomous?
No, it is considered harmless to humans.
Why is it called cat-eyed?
It has distinctly vertical, elliptical pupils resembling a cat's eyes.
What does it eat?
It specializes in feeding on soft-shelled, recently molted crabs.
Where is it found?
It inhabits mangrove forests and mudflats across South and Southeast Asia.
Cat-Eyed Water Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Cat-Eyed Water Snake.
