Scarce Wolf Snake
Lycodon gansi
A rarely encountered, small banded wolf snake known from limited localities in the Himalayan foothill region.
- Venomous?
- Non-venomous
- Adult length
- 0.3-0.5 m (1-1.6 ft)
- Range
- South and Southeast Asia (Himalayan foothills)
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Overview
The Scarce Wolf Snake is a poorly known, infrequently recorded member of the wolf snake genus Lycodon, found in limited localities across parts of the Himalayan foothill region. As its common name suggests, it is rarely encountered and much of its natural history remains undocumented.
It is harmless to humans, consistent with other members of its genus, and is primarily of interest to regional herpetologists due to its rarity.
How to identify it
- Dark brown to blackish body with narrow pale crossbands, similar in general appearance to other banded wolf snakes
- Smooth scales
- Head slightly distinct from neck, round pupils
- Adults typically 0.3-0.5 m in length
- Distinguished from more common wolf snake species primarily by subtle scale count differences and restricted range
Habitat & range
Known from scattered localities in forested and hilly terrain within the Himalayan foothill region, though its full range and habitat preferences remain incompletely documented.
Behavior, diet & reproduction
Presumed nocturnal and terrestrial like other wolf snakes, likely feeding on small lizards. Detailed behavioral and reproductive data are lacking due to the species' rarity in collections and field observations.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Scarce Wolf Snake venomous?
No, it is considered harmless to humans.
Why is little known about this species?
It is rarely encountered in the field, so its natural history remains poorly documented.
Where is it found?
In scattered localities within the Himalayan foothill region.
What does it likely eat?
Small lizards, based on the diet of related wolf snake species.
Scarce Wolf Snake guides
In-depth guides for identifying and understanding Scarce Wolf Snake.
