Tropidophis


Tropidophis, common name wood snakes or West Indian wood snakes, is a genus of dwarf boas endemic to the West Indies and South America. Currently, 17 species are recognized.

Description

Adults grow to between in total length. They are secretive and predominately terrestrial, found in a variety of natural habitats, including rain forest, swamps, pine woods and scrub, as well as in the vicinity of human habitation. They have a peculiar defensive habit of expelling blood from the mouth, nostrils and eyes when disturbed. Some species also change colour over the course of the day.
Despite their relatively small size and secretive nature, some species may be susceptible to extirpation, mainly due to habitat alteration and introduced feral animals. The Navassa Island dwarf boa, T. bucculentus, has not been seen for 100 years and is believed to be extinct.

Distribution and habitat

Found in the West Indies, Brazil, Peru and Ecuador.

Species

*) Not including the nominate subspecies
T) Type species
The Reptile Database includes some further species:
*) Not including the nominate subspecies