Wildlifeof China
Common Mock Viper
Colubrid Snakes
Photo: 1Stop Borneo Wildlife
Psammodynastes pulverulentus
Basic stats
Diet
Frogs and lizards, particularly skinks
Range
South, Southeast and East Asia, including Fujian, Yunnan, Guangxi, Guangdong and Hainan in China
Size
Approximately 50cm
The Common Mock Viper is a small, variable brown snake about half a metre long, with a distinct angular head, large eyes with vertical pupils and smooth scales. When threatened it coils and strikes in a viper-like display, producing the resemblance reflected in its English name. It is not regarded as dangerous to people. (The Reptile Database; Wikipedia, general species account)
The species ranges widely across tropical and subtropical Asia, including Fujian, Yunnan, Guangxi, Guangdong, Hainan, Hong Kong and Taiwan. It is active by day and feeds on frogs and lizards, especially skinks. Rather than laying eggs, it retains developing young and gives birth to live offspring. (The Reptile Database)
Quick answers
- What does the Common Mock Viper eat?
- Frogs and lizards, particularly skinks
- Where is the Common Mock Viper found?
- South, Southeast and East Asia, including Fujian, Yunnan, Guangxi, Guangdong and Hainan in China
- How big is the Common Mock Viper?
- Approximately 50cm