Lytorhynchus maynardi


Lytorhynchus maynardi, also known commonly as Maynard's longnose sand snake and the Baloch awl-headed sand snake, is a species of snake in the subfamily Colubrinae of the family Colubridae. The species is native to Asia.

Etymology

The specific name, maynardi, is in honor of Colonel F.P. Maynard, a physician with the Indian Medical Service.

Description

Dorsally, Lytorhynchus maynardi is salmon-colored with a series of many narrow dark brown crossbars. Ventrally, it is cream-colored.

Geographic distribution

Lytorhynchus maynardi is found Afghanistan, Iran, and Pakistan.

Behavior and habitat

The preferred natural habitats of Lytorhynchus maynardi are desert and shrubland. The species is fossorial and in Iran occurs in sand dune habitats at altitudes around. The species' type locality is in southern Afghanistan at an elevation of. It is nocturnal.

Diet

Lytorhynchus maynardi preys upon arthropods and small lizards.

Reproduction

Lytorhynchus maynardi is oviparous. Clutch size is 2–4 eggs.