More than 2200 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Snakes of Zihuatanejo
SUBORDER SERPENTES
Thornscrub Vine Snake
-Vertebrates (Subphylum Vertebrata)
-Snakes and Lizards (Order Squamata)
-Colubrid Snakes (Family Colubridae)
-Colubrine Snakes (Subfamily Colubrinae)
-Vine Snakes (Genus Oxybelis)
-Thornscrub Vine Snake (Oxybelis microphthalmus)
The Thornscrub Vine Snake (Oxybelis microphthalmus) is a slender, arboreal, rear-fanged colubrid snake. This species is very slender, with a body that is laterally compressed, an elongated head distinct from its neck, and a very long tail. As its name suggests, it primarily inhabits thornscrub environments. It is a diurnal (active during the day) and largely arboreal species, spending most of its life in trees and bushes. It is known for its ability to remain motionless among branches, using its camouflage to avoid predators and ambush prey. Its diet primarily consists of small lizards and frogs, which it catches both on the ground and in trees. Its venom has little to no effect on humans, typically causing only slight tingling or temporary numbness at the bite site.
Oxybelis microphthalmus
Description
• Oxybelis microphthalmus is a slender, elongated, mildly venomous snake in the family Colubridae, commonly associated with the vine snakes. It has a very narrow, pointed head, an exceptionally thin body and a long tail. Its elongated shape and cryptic colouration help it resemble twigs and slender branches. Like other vine snakes, it relies on camouflage and keen vision to locate prey among vegetation. It should not be handled, despite generally being considered of low risk to humans.
Range
• Oxybelis microphthalmus occurs in parts of Mexico and Central America. It is present in Zihuatanejo, Guerrero, Mexico, within the tropical Pacific region of southwestern Mexico.
Habitat
• This species is associated with tropical and subtropical vegetation, including dry forest, woodland edges, scrub and areas with dense shrubs or climbing plants. It is primarily arboreal, spending much of its time perched among branches and foliage, where its slender body helps it remain inconspicuous.
Diet
• Oxybelis microphthalmus feeds mainly on small lizards and other small vertebrates. It uses its visual acuity and camouflage to approach prey among branches before striking and subduing it.