This profile is pending review by a qualified herpetologist. Never rely on it to decide whether a snake is safe to approach.
Overview
Widespread from forests to towns and deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture. It raises and spreads its hood when threatened.
How to recognise it
- 1Spreads a broad hood when threatened
- 2Spectacle-shaped marking on the back of the hood
- 3Smooth, glossy scales; colour ranges from brown to black
Where it lives
Most of the island: paddy fields, forest edges, home gardens and village settlements.