Sahyadriophis uttaraghati


Sahyadriophis uttaraghati is a species of keelback endemic to the northern Western Ghats region of India. It is commonly known as the northern sahyadri keelback.

Description

Sahyadriophis uttaraghati has a predominantly brown to dark grey coloration with random black and white markings that become less distinct towards the rear of the body. The underside transitions from white in the front area to cream and yellow towards the rear. Some individuals may feature a light-colored bar on the back of the head and a downwardly directed post-ocular stripe, typically white or lighter in color with black edges.

Range

Sahyadriophis uttaraghati appears to be common and widespread in the western ghats region of Maharashtra.

Habitat and ecology

Specimens were observed actively moving during the day in a dried streambed. The species appears to be largely diurnal and has been observed feeding on Indirana and eggs of Nyctibatrachus.

Etymology

The specific epithet is a combination of two Sanskrit words: 'uttara' for north and 'ghati' meaning dweller of the mountains/Ghats. The combination refers to the northern distribution of Sahyadriophis uttaraghati.