Ostentatious Oxyrhopus

Tschudi's false coral snake (Oxyrhopus melanogenys) - Madre de dios department, Peru

 

Just back from an amazing month in Peru during which I photographed lots of jungle wildlife. I saw a few of these O. melanogenys. Due to their bright coloration they somewhat resemble coral snakes. However, they are totally harmless and unlikely to even attempt to bite in self defense. A look at their head immediately reveals the difference from any coral snake species as the eyes are much much larger. They are an adaptable snake that feed on a variety of prey items and are found in both disturbed and pristine habitat.

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