More than 2100 species of the wild flora and fauna photographed in Zihuatanejo, Mexico and the surrounding area.
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Snakes of Zihuatanejo
SUBORDER SERPENTES
Thornscrub Vine Snake
Oxybelis microphthalmus
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Snakes and Lizards (Order Squamata)
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.


